Tracheal cancer starts in the windpipe (trachea). It’s rare, and the exact cause isn’t known. Smoking is linked to the most common type of tracheal cancer called squamous cell cancer, but doesn’t cause other types. Symptoms of tracheal cancer include: A dry cough Breathlessness A hoarse voice Difficulty swallowing Recurring fevers, chills and chest infections Coughing up blood Wheezing or noisy breathing. If your GP thinks your symptoms could be caused by cancer they will refer you to a specialist.
Different tests and scans are used to diagnose a tracheal cancer, including: lung function tests, x-rays, MRI, CT or ultrasound scans or a bronchoscopy. The main treatments of tracheal cancer are surgery and radiotherapy. If possible, the cancer will be removed completely with surgery. Radiotherapy is often given afterwards to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. Chemotherapy is also…
