Head & Neck

Through the links on the left we hope you will find useful information on some common conditions affecting the Head and Neck. If dysphagia is present for any length of time or if it is accompanied by any of the following symptoms it is important to seek an ENT referral to ascertain the cause.

This is one of the salivary glands that is situated under your jaw. Approximately 60% of the lumps in the submandibular gland are benign (not cancerous) and the rest can be cancerous. They occur as a result of overgrowth of the cells in the gland. Swelling can also arise, as a result of stones blocking the duct draining the gland. This often leads to infection and pain, restricting routine activity.

This is the gland that is affected by Mumps. Lumps (tumours) in the parotid gland are common and are seen in all age groups. They are the result of an abnormal growth of cells within the gland, though the exact reasons for this are not clear. The vast majority (approximately 80%) of these tumours are not cancerous and are called benign tumours.

The thyroid gland lies in front of the neck just below the Adam’s apple and is butterfly shaped. The right and left wings (lobes) are joined by a small bridge of thyroid tissue (body) called the isthmus. The two lobes lie on either side of the windpipe. The thyroid gland manufactures hormones, which are chemicals that circulate in the bloodstream and affect the function of the cells and tissues in the body. Thyroid hormones are essential for survival.

We specialize in the diagnosis and management of head and neck cancers. As many as 90 percent of head and neck cancers arise after prolonged exposure to specific factors. Use of tobacco (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco or snuff) and alcoholic beverages are closely linked with cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box and tongue.

The most common head and neck cancer is basal cell cancer of the skin. Fortunately, this is rarely a major problem if treated early. Basal cell cancers appear most often on sun-exposed areas like the forehead, face, and ears, although they can occur almost anywhere on the skin.