5 Warning signs of mouth cancer
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is where a tumor develops in a part of the mouth. It may be on the surface of the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth (palate), the lips or gums.
Tumors can also develop in the glands that produce saliva, the tonsils at the back of the mouth, and the part of the throat connecting your mouth to your windpipe (pharynx). However, these are less common.
If mouth or oral cancer is detected early, it’s treatable and may be cured, which is why understanding the warning signs and paying attention to your oral health is important.
Top 5 Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer
- Unexplained Bleeding
If you experience bleeding from the mouth without any apparent cause, it may be a warning sign of oral cancer.
- Persistent Sore Throat
A sore throat that lasts for more than two weeks could be a sign of oral cancer, especially if it’s accompanied by difficulty swallowing.
- Mouth Sores
White or red sores in the mouth that don’t heal within two weeks may indicate oral cancer.
- Unexplained Weight Loss
Many cancer patients experience unexplained weight loss, and this is true for oral cancer as well.
- Persistent Ear Pain
If you experience persistent ear pain without any obvious cause, it may indicate oral cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in your neck.
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Who is at risk for mouth cancer?
- Tobacco Users
Tobacco smokers are 6 times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers.
- Age Over 50
Oral cancer incidence increases with age, with most people being diagnosed after age 50.
- HPV Infection
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that increases the risk of oral and other types of cancers.
- Alcohol Consumption
Drinking alcohol excessively increases the risk of oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Treatment Options
Surgery
Surgery is often used to remove cancerous tumors and surrounding tissues.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.