This condition can manifest itself differently in each person. To detect and treat nasopharyngeal cancer early, it’s important to watch for the following symptoms:

1. Persistent sore throat

A persistent sore throat is an early symptom of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, often confused with a cold or flu. It occurs when the growing tumor invades the mucosa, causing a long-lasting sore throat that subsides over time, often accompanied by difficulty swallowing, saliva, or eating.

2. Headache

This symptom often occurs when a malignant tumor has invaded the skull. The tumor may compress nerves, causing unilateral headaches, temple pain, or pain at the top of the head. The pain is usually diffuse and persistent, suggesting a neurological or cerebral disorder.

3. Lumps in the neck (lymph nodes)

Most patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma experience enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. Initially, these tumors are small and palpable only. In later stages, the tumors enlarge, may cause neck or jaw deformity, and appear to be attached to surrounding tissues rather than moving with pressure.

4. Unilateral rhinitis or runny nose