IF you’re struggling with a blocked nose then your first thought might be the common cold, or even Covid-19.
During the colder months it’s easier to mistake symptoms like this with the many bugs that are circulating, but experts have warned that they could in fact be a sign of a silent killer.
Nose cancer, also known as nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) – affects the nasopharynx.
This is the upper part of the pharynx (throat) behind the nose.
In the UK, about 260 people are diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer each year, the NHS says.
Most people with the cancer won’t recognise the symptoms until it’s at a later stage.
It’s different to nasal or sinus cancer, which is a rare cancer that impacts the space behind your nose and the sinuses – the small air-filled cavities inside your nose, cheekbones and forehead.
Experts have said that NPC could be masquerading as a blocked nose.
It’s the sort of feeling you have when you try and blow your nose in a tissue, but the bunged up feeling doesn’t subside.
If you’ve been experiencing this for a few months, experts say that this could be a key sign of NPC.
Otorhinolaryngologist and ENT (ear nose and throat) specialist Dr Lim Keng Hua, explained that the cancer typically arises from a groove known as the fossa of Rosenmuller, situated at the side of the nasopharynx.
He explained that there are other accompanying signs of the cancer which could be mistaken for an infection.
Patients with nose cancer might also suffer with a painless lump on the side of the neck, as well as other symptoms such as a blocked ear.
Other common symptoms include blood in saliva or phlegm, nose bleeds or frequent headaches and earaches.
Patients may also experience a change in hearing or double vision.
