Oral cancer, also known as squamous cell carcinoma, can develop in various parts of the mouth, including the tongue, gums, lips, and the inside of the cheeks. Early detection of symptoms is crucial for effective treatment, as this form of cancer can be managed if caught in its initial stages. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:
- Sores that don’t heal: If a sore inside the mouth doesn’t heal after two weeks, it could be a sign of oral cancer. These sores can become extremely painful in the later stages of the disease.
- White or red patches: Unexplained white patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplakia) inside the mouth are potential indicators of oral cancer and should not be ignored.
- Lumps: Lumps inside the lips, gums, or around the mouth are a possible sign of cancer. These lumps may persist or grow in size over time.
- Pain while swallowing: Difficulty or sharp pain while swallowing, or the sensation of something stuck in the throat, could be a symptom of cancer. A burning sensation when chewing food is also a warning sign.
- Change in voice: If lumps develop on the throat or lymph nodes in the neck become swollen, it may indicate that the cancer has spread from the mouth to other parts of the body.
- Chronic weight loss: Unexpected weight loss, especially when caused by difficulty swallowing food, may be linked to oral cancer.
- Bad breath: While bad breath can be common, persistent and foul-smelling breath could signal oral cancer.
- Loose teeth: Oral cancer can lead to dental problems, including loose teeth, due to its impact on the gums and jaw.
- Numbness or bleeding: Unexplained numbness or bleeding in the mouth may signal severe conditions such as oral cancer.
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking timely medical intervention is vital. Some of these signs could occur even without the presence of cancer, but it is important not to ignore them if they persist for more than two weeks. A biopsy may be conducted to determine the presence of cancer and guide treatment. Factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and a family history of oral cancer increase the risk of developing the disease.