Cancer in all its forms is one of the plagues of our time. AIRC, the Italian cancer research association, estimates that around 1,000 new cases are diagnosed every day. Unfortunately, some cancers are very common. Others are rarer but no less dangerous. Ear tumors fall into this second category. Their rarity, however, is a double-edged sword and very often leads us to underestimate the symptoms and mistake them for other pathologies. So let’s pay attention to this little annoyance, it could be the antechamber of a rare and dangerous tumor. And the symptom in question is auditory muffling.
Beware of this little nuisance it could be the antechamber of a rare and dangerous tumor
Ear cancer falls into the group of head and neck cancers. This type of cancer can affect two distinct areas: the outer ear and the middle ear.
This is why we must be careful if we suffer from hearing loss, that is, if we have the same sensation of having water or a plug of wax in the ear. It is one of the most common signs of the condition and paves the way for far worse symptoms.
Hearing wadding isn’t the only ear cancer symptom. Others not to be underestimated include sudden hearing loss, recurring headaches and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
In case of external ear cancer, also pay attention to superficial wounds. If we have a small cut that does not stop bleeding or lumps and pus bubbles form, we must go to the doctor immediately.
How to prevent ear cancer and what to do if the disease is suspected
Don’t underestimate these symptoms and seeing a specialist is all the more important for ear cancer. It is estimated that if the disease is recognized in time and remains limited, we have a 70% chance of survival. A percentage that drops dramatically to 12% if the tumor progresses and metastases form.
At the moment, there are no other forms of prevention other than the general ones of maintaining regular habits and a diet as complete as possible. Fortunately, we have the Mediterranean diet available, the richest of all in natural antioxidants and anticancer agents.
In case of persistent symptoms or suspicion of ear cancer we must immediately contact an ENT. I will be the one to indicate the therapy and the exams to be taken. The analyzes that clarify whether we are facing a tumor or not are the CAT scan of the Rocche Petrose and magnetic resonance imaging.
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