Symptoms Of Mouth Cancer | Onlymyhealth

Mouth cancer or oral cancer, often manifests as undetected in its early stages. This insidious nature makes it even more crucial to be aware of its warning signs and prioritise regular oral health checks.

“Mouth cancer is caused due to interplay of several factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, genetic predisposition and others. Early detection of mouth cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and positive outcomes,” said Dr Lakshmi Priyadarshini K, Consultant – Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Vijayawada. So, how do we recognise this silent threat? As per Dr Priyadarshini, here are some key symptoms to watch out for: 

Lingering Sores

“A mouth sore that refuses to heal after two weeks deserves immediate attention. These sores can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat,” said Dr Priyadarshini, adding, they may be red, white, or painless, but their persistence is a red flag. 

Suspicious Patches

“White or red patches, known as leukoplakia and erythroplakia, respectively, can be pre – cancerous lesions. While not all patches become cancerous, their presence demands evaluation,” said Dr Priyadarshini. 

Also read: Here Are 5 Signs Of Cancer In Men And Women That Are Often Ignored

Lumps and Bumps

“Any unexplained lump or bump on the lips, gums, inside the mouth, or even under the jaw requires a closer look. These swellings may be accompanied by pain or tenderness, although not always,” said Dr Priyadarshini.

Dysphagia and Jaw Issues

“Difficulty swallowing or chewing, a feeling of something stuck in your throat, or limited jaw movement can be associated with mouth cancer, especially when progressing to later stages,” said Dr Priyadarshini. 

Changes in Speech

“Slurred speech, hoarseness, or a persistent change in voice can be caused by tumours affecting the throat or tongue,” Dr Priyadarshni, adding, don’t ignore these subtle differences in your voice. 

Numbness and Bleeding

Unexplained numbness in the mouth, lip, or face, along with frequent bleeding from the gums or other areas of the mouth, should raise an alarm. 

Loose Teeth and Denture Discomfort

According to Dr Priyadarshini, teeth becoming inexplicably loose or dentures fitting poorly due to swelling in the jaw can be indicators of underlying problems, potentially including mouth cancer. 

Unexplained Weight Loss

A sudden and unexpected drop in weight can be a symptom of various cancers, including mouth cancer. 

Also read: Top 5 Cancer Screenings That Should be on Your Radar in 2024

Chronic Bad Breath

While bad breath can have several causes, chronic and persistent foul odour despite good oral hygiene practices can be a potential symptom of mouth cancer. It’s important to remember that not everyone experiencing these symptoms will have mouth cancer. However, any persistent or unexplained changes in your mouth or throat must be taken seriously. Early diagnosis is key, and prompt action can drastically improve the treatment outcomes. Here’s what you can do to stay proactive: 

Regular Dental Checkups

Schedule regular dental checkups, ideally twice a year. Your dentist can examine your mouth and throat for any abnormalities like sharp teeth and perform oral cancer screenings. 

Self-Examinations

Conduct monthly self-examinations of your mouth and throat using a bright light and mirror. Be thorough and check for any suspicious changes. 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Practise good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly. This not only keeps your mouth healthy but also makes it easier to spot any changes. 

Limit Risk Factors

Minimise your risk of mouth cancer by avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. These are established risk factors for developing the disease. Early detection and intervention are important in tackling mouth cancer effectively. 

By being aware of the symptoms, practising excellent oral hygiene, and scheduling frequent checks, you can empower yourself to resist this silent menace and prioritise your oral health. Remember, knowledge is power, the ability to defend yourself and maintain a healthy grin.