Head & Neck Cancer
Cancer that arises in the head or neck region (in the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, salivary glands, throat, or larynx). Head and neck cancers account for approximately 3 to 5% of all cancers in the United States. These cancers are more common in men and people over 50. 85% of head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use. People who use both tobacco and alcohol are at greater risk for developing these cancers.
Certain risk factors for head and neck cancer include:
- Oral cavity: Sun exposure; possibly human papillomavirus infection
- Salivary glands: Radiation to the head and neck
- Paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity: Certain industrial exposures, such as wood or nickel dust inhalation
- Nasopharynx: Asian/Chinese ancestry, Epstein-Barr virus infection, occupational exposure to wood dust and consumption of certain preservatives or salted foods
- Oropharynx: Poor oral hygiene, human papilomavirus infection, and use of mouthwash that has a high alcohol content are possible risk factors
- Hypopharynx: Pummer-Vinson syndrome, a rare disorder that results from iron and other nutritional deficiencies.
- Larynx: Exposure to airborne particles of asbestos
Symptoms that have been associated with this type of cancer include a lump or sore that does not heal, a sore throat that doesn’t go away, difficulty swallowing, and change or hoarseness in the voice. To find the cause of the symptoms a doctor evaluates your medical history, performs a physical exam, and orders diagnostic tests. Tests may include endoscopy, lab tests, x-rays, CT scan, MRI, PET scan, and a biopsy to remove tissue from suspicious area for a pathologist to examine to determine diagnosis. If the diagnosis is cancer the doctor will then need to know the stage or extent of the disease to see if it has spread. This may involve x-rays, lab tests, and examination under anesthesia in the operating room.
Once diagnosis and stage are confirmed your doctor will go over treatment options with you. The treatment plan depends on the location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer and the person’s age and general health. Treatment options consist of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. A plan that is best for you will then be decided upon by you and your healthcare team.
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February 16 Stroke & Brain Injury Support Group
WHO : Anybody who has had a stroke, TBI, or Brain Injury and their families, caregivers, or friends are welcome! WHAT YOU NEED : Computer or phone, a microphone, and speakers, a webcam (optional), & an internet connection. HOW TO JOIN : Visit our ...
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February 15 Look Good Feel Better
This has been postponed until further notice. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep our patients, staff, residents and community members safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Look Good Feel Better is a free program that teaches beauty ...
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February 18 Survivors of the Loss of Suicide Support Group
The death of a loved one by suicide presents special problems in grieving. There is often more shock, a greater sense of injustice, more guilt and blame, a heightened sense of helplessness; and these all tend to complicate the healing process for ...
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January 28 Seeking Safety Group
Seeking Safety is a group open to women who have experienced trauma and have a history of problems with substance use. This group is a safe place to learn coping skills on how to manage daily life more effectively. Seeking Safety also provides ...
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January 26 Al-Anon Group Meetings
This has been postponed until further notice. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep our patients, staff, residents, and community members safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Al-Anon meetings are for those affected by others' drinking. Here ...
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January 26 Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Support Group
The Behavioral Health Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Group meets every Tuesday from 5–6 pm. This outpatient group provides ongoing relapse prevention and aftercare services to our clients who have successfully completed one of our more ...
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January 26 Alzheimer's Support Group
Over 8,500 people in Wyoming are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and 28,000 family and friends are helping to care for them. Alzheimer’s is often referred to as a ‘caregivers disease’ because of the tremendous toll – physically, emotionally and ...
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"My wife (Gerie Helton) and I traveled to Cody for our anniversary trip to Yellowstone National Park. On September 23, 2018 which would have been the first day of our trip she dislocated her left hip ( which had been replaced in 2009 0r 2010) while putting on her socks ( of all things.) We were staying at the Sunrise Motor Inn which fortunately was a short ambulance ride to your emergency room. The experience we had beginning with the EMT's who responded to the ambulance call, to the emergency room, and the next day on the second floor of your fine hospital is what ..."
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"I was a walk in patient on 5/29/18. I had been sick for several days while on a month long motorhome trip. The reception staff was friendly and efficient. I was seen quickly by the PA on duty, Robert Lang. He listened to me, did an exam, diagnosed my illness as acute bronchitis, and prescribed the necessary medication. I was feeling better in just a few days which enabled me to enjoy the remainder of my trip. I was sick and a long way from home so I really appreciated the excellent and friendly care that I received."
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