Symptoms

Symptoms of Nasal and Sinus Cancers

Many of the symptoms of tumors arising in the nose and sinuses are also associated with the more common conditions of nasal allergy and chronic sinusitis. This can cause a delay in a definitive diagnosis in some cases. If the symptoms do not resolve, imaging tests can be performed to rule out the presence of the tumor.

Patients with benign tumors or cancer within the nose and sinuses often have headaches and dirty drainage from the nose, nosebleeds, nasal blockages, a lump on the face or in the roof of the mouth or protruding eye. In some cases, the cancer can spread to the lymph nodes of the neck, but it is not common.

Signs of paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer include sinus problems and nosebleeds. Other symptoms may include:

• Blocked sinuses that do not clear, or sinus pressure
• Headaches or pain in the sinus areas
• A runny nose
• Nosebleeds
• A lump or sore inside the nose that does not heal
• A lump on the face or roof of the mouth
• Numbness or tingling in the face
• Swelling or other trouble with the eyes, such as double vision or the eyes pointing in different directions
• Pain in the upper teeth, loose teeth, or dentures that no longer fit well
• Pain or pressure in the ear

In the early stages, there may be no signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms may appear as the cancer advances. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your physician.