Head and neck cancers can develop in areas such as the throat, mouth, voice box, nasal cavity, or salivary glands. These cancers may cause symptoms that are easy to overlook, including a sore throat that does not go away, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a lump in the neck. Because these areas play an important role in speaking, breathing, and eating, timely diagnosis and treatment are especially important.
At Emerald Coast Cancer Center, conveniently located for residents of Crestview, our oncology services focus on personalized treatment planning and compassionate care for patients facing head and neck cancers. Our cancer treatment team understands how these cancers can affect daily life and overall well being, which is why we provide thoughtful guidance, advanced treatment options, and clear communication throughout every stage of care.
Head and neck cancers can develop in several areas, including the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal passages, and nearby glands or cavities. Because many symptoms can resemble common illnesses such as infections or allergies, diagnosis may sometimes be delayed if warning signs are overlooked. Paying attention to persistent or unusual changes in your health may help support earlier detection and treatment.
Common symptoms of head and neck cancer may include:
If head and neck cancer is suspected, the diagnostic process typically begins with a physical examination and a review of your symptoms, medical history, and overall health. Depending on the area of concern, your doctor may use a specialized scope to examine the throat, mouth, or nasal passages more closely. Imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans are often used to identify tumors and determine their size, location, and whether the cancer has spread.
A biopsy is usually required to confirm a diagnosis. This involves removing a small tissue sample for laboratory testing to identify cancer cells and determine the specific type of cancer. Blood tests may also be performed to evaluate general health and check for certain tumor markers or other abnormalities.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the oncology team at Emerald Coast Cancer Center, conveniently located for residents of Crestview, works closely with patients to explain each step of the treatment process with clarity and compassion. Our goal is to provide timely answers, personalized guidance, and supportive care from diagnosis through every phase of treatment and recovery.
Head and neck cancers can vary greatly depending on where they develop and how advanced they are, which is why treatment plans must be carefully personalized for each patient. At Emerald Coast Cancer Center, conveniently located for residents of Crestview, we work closely with patients to create individualized treatment plans focused on treating the cancer while also supporting comfort, communication, nutrition, and overall quality of life.
Treatment options for head and neck cancer may include:
Surgery: Often used for tumors that can be safely removed and may involve removing cancerous tissue or affected lymph nodes.
Immunotherapy: Helps stimulate the body’s immune system to better recognize and attack cancer cells. This treatment is commonly used in advanced or recurrent cancers.
Targeted Therapy: Uses medications that focus on specific genes or proteins involved in cancer cell growth and may offer fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy: Uses cancer fighting drugs to destroy cancer cells or slow their spread. Chemotherapy may be used alone or alongside other treatments.
Radiation Therapy: Uses precise high energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells and is often used after surgery or when surgery is not possible.
Side effects vary depending on the location of the cancer and the treatment being used. Some patients may experience fatigue, mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, skin irritation, or appetite changes during treatment. Our oncology team carefully monitors progress throughout care, helps manage side effects, and adjusts treatment plans when needed to support patient comfort and recovery.
At Emerald Coast Cancer Center, we are committed to helping patients in Crestview navigate head and neck cancer treatment with compassionate support, clear communication, and personalized care focused on the whole person throughout every stage of treatment and recovery.
Posted on Ian PrudhommeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. King is beyond amazing! I recently switched oncologists and she has gone above and beyond all expectations we had. She’s incredibly kind, compassionate, and so informative. I feel like I’m in the best hands under her care and am so grateful for her!Posted on Jazlyn MargrafTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been going here for few years now, Dr. Henderson and his team are amazinggggg. I was so nervous at first switching doctors but they made me feel comfortable. The only complaint I have is the African American lady doing scheduling off to the side. She always has an attitude and never seems like she wants to be there. I already had cancer and have to come to the appointments for cancer check ups, the last thing I want to deal with is a lady with an attitude when I’m trying to schedule my next appointment.Posted on JudyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We can’t begin to say enough wonderful things about Dr Henry Hsiang. He is a brilliant clinical physician plus has compassion and empathy. We have spoken with Dr Hsiang and Dr. Henderson after hours and both have been so kind. Throughout the chemo treatments, staff has been friendly, compassionate, and professional. This cancer center is an amazing resource for the Fort Walton Beach area. Would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone.Posted on karoline dempseyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr King and her team (PA Courtney and Nurse Ally) are a shining light in a dismal journey. Highest ratings for professional treatment and personal care. So competent they suggested we get into MD Anderson for future medicine trial consideration. First thing MDACC did was validate that ECCC & Dr King were on the correct path and praised their care. What better bonafides are needed?Posted on Glenice CooksonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been going to the Emerald Coast Cancer Center for over 4 years. Everyone there is fantastic. They are very thorough and caring. I highly recommend them to everyone.Posted on Lindsey StewartTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband is battling colon cancer and I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. King and the staff at ECCC. Dr King makes us so comfortable discussing such a difficult thing. She treats us like family and I have the most love and respect for her. She truly is the best in our eyes. Allison, Dr King’s nurse makes it a high priority to make sure that husband has the best experience every single time he’s seen. Between Allison and his chemo nurses, Lita, Beth, and Leslie…just to name a few…these ladies are literally angels on earth. Let’s face it, no one wants to have to be in an oncology office, but they all bring such sunshine into our lives at such a dark time. We love you all! Thank you all for caring for my husband the way you do 💙💙Posted on Joy AdkissonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone has always been kind and respectful to me. They're helpful in anyway they can be. Patient with me and any of my questions. Dr. Melissa King is my doctor. What can I say about her?...I just love her so much! She's the best! She cares deeply and always makes me feel at ease. Thanks to you all!! Joy AdkissonPosted on Renee StevensTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The doctors and nurses here are so kind and compassionate! I left Sacred Heart to come over here . They take very good care, listen, and make you feel like an individual....not a number or protocol. They are also willing to work with other doctors and facilities if you want another opinion.Posted on Amy MorfesiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. No one wants to have to write a review on a cancer center, let's face it, it's not a place we ever want to go to. But in August of 2023 I had my 1st appointment with Dr. King. I think it's mandatory that all oncologists have to be slightly pessimistic giving the worst case scenarios, even though I had to hear all the what if's, I also felt incredibly cared for by my new doctor. She was real and kind and very patient as my husband and I had alot of questions. She assured us she would be in the fight with us and if at any time we needed more then she could provide, she would recommend us to the mayo clinic or another cancer center with more medical opinions for care. The atmosphere felt like walking into my grandparents home, not fancy, but felt like a hug, and that's fitting, because from day 1 of my treatments the staff and nurses were amazing. They were some of the kindest ladies I have ever met. Gentle and knowledgeable. I'm a talker and a hugger and they were both as well. I had some scarey moments in the beginning of my treatments, and with them helping me I felt strong and well cared for. I watched as they secretly gave food to patients that were hungry and needed food for strength after chemo, they talked to all of us like we were just regular people, not cancer patients. We laughted, shared stories, danced and connected together. They made chemo days less scarey. I highly recommend Emerald Coast Cancer Center. Their doctors, nurses and staff are the best. Amy Douglas
At Emerald Coast Cancer Center, we understand that treating head and neck cancer involves much more than medical procedures alone. These cancers can affect speaking, swallowing, eating, appearance, and many aspects of daily life, which is why we provide supportive services designed to help patients manage the emotional, physical, and practical challenges that may come with treatment and recovery.
For patients in Crestview seeking head and neck cancer care, our support services include:
• Financial counseling and insurance assistance to help patients better understand coverage, billing questions, and treatment related costs
• Help coordinating additional services such as home care support, nutritional guidance, specialist referrals, or outside resources when needed
At Emerald Coast Cancer Center, our oncology team is committed to supporting every stage of care with compassionate guidance, personalized attention, and comprehensive support from diagnosis through treatment, recovery, and long term follow up.
Cancers that affect the head and neck areas can interfere with important everyday functions such as speaking, swallowing, breathing, and eating, making personalized and thoughtful care especially important. At Emerald Coast Cancer Center, conveniently located for residents of Crestview, we take an individualized approach to head and neck cancer treatment by working closely with experienced specialists to develop treatment plans tailored to each patient’s diagnosis, lifestyle, and personal goals.
Our oncology team is committed to supporting not only your medical treatment, but also your comfort, communication, nutrition, and overall peace of mind throughout the cancer journey. From diagnosis through recovery and long term follow up care, we provide experienced guidance, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support designed to help patients feel informed and cared for every step of the way.
Contact Emerald Coast Cancer Center today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the head and neck cancer treatment and supportive care services available near Crestview.
Emerald Coast Cancer Center offers head and neck cancer treatment to patients in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Crestview, and the surrounding areas.
1024 Marwalt Dr, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
850-863-3148
