Tracheal Cancer

What is Tracheal Cancer?

The tube that connects the mouth and nose to the lungs is called as the Trachea, and the air we breathe goes in and out of the lungs through it. Trachea is placed in front of the oesophagus and it carries the food down from the mouth. It is about 5 - 6 inches long and consists of fibrous tissue rings.


Tracheal Cancer is known as the cancer of the windpipe. There are different kinds of Tracheal Cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma is the most common among them. This particular kind of cancer basically happens because of smoking, but the reasons for other kinds of Tracheal Cancer are still unknown.

Symptoms

While these symptoms may be due to some other infections too, it is always recommended to check for Tracheal Cancer. The common symptoms of Tracheal Cancer include:

  • Difficulty in breathing/ breathlessness.
  • A dry cough.
  • Hoarse voice.
  • Discomfort in swallowing.
  • Recurrent chest infection, fever, and chills.
  • Coughing blood.
  • Wheezing.

Causes

The causes of this disease are not known as such but smoking is its most apparent cause.

Risks

The prime risk factors include:

  • Disturbed functioning of the body.
  • Smoking.
  • Slow movement.

Prevention

To prevent the occurrence of Tracheal Cancer, there are some things to take care of:

  • Avoiding tobacco use.
  • Consuming healthy diet.
  • Wearing surgical masks while working in high-risk environments.

How is it diagnosed?

You will be first checked by a General Practitioner. And, if the practitioner refers you to a specialist, you may have to undergo certain tests to determine the presence of Tracheal Cancer. The tes...

How is it treated?

The main therapy for Tracheal Cancer includes surgery and radiotherapy. The exact course of the treatment is determined by the individual’s stage and grade of cancer, and also his/her general health. Surgery is done to remove the cancer complete..

  • Surgery

    The surgery for Tracheal Cancer involves removing a section of the Trachea where the cancer is, and joins the ends together. This is extremely successful in case of an early or local stage Tracheal Cancer. The surgery is carried out by specialists. Proper post surgery care is necessary for complete healing.

  • Radiotherapy

    It is the process of using high energy X-rays to completely destroy the cancer cells. This is used to diminish the symptoms. There are a few side effects associated with radiotherapy, which a specialist will be able to best advise and recommend you.

When do I contact the doctor?

You should immediately consult a doctor If you experience trouble in breathing, swallowing, or notice any appetite problem. The treatment would immediately help you get better and will relax all your symptoms. 

Book an Appointment

How does Medanta provide care?

..

Consult with experienced doctors

  • Have a question?

    Call us +91 - 124 - 4141414

Feedback