Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, or other parts of the face. According to the World Health Organization, oral cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer worldwide, and it affects hundreds of thousands of people every year.

Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for a successful treatment outcome. Unfortunately, many people ignore the early symptoms of oral cancer, which can lead to a later diagnosis and a poorer prognosis. 

Most common early symptoms of oral cancer, and why you should never ignore them

Persistent Mouth Sores

One of the most common early symptoms of oral cancer is the appearance of persistent mouth sores. These sores can appear on the lips, tongue, cheek, or gums, and they can be painful or painless. They may be red, white, or discolored, and they may have a rough or smooth texture.

If you have a persistent mouth sore that does not heal within two weeks, you should seek medical attention immediately. This is especially true if the sore is accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling or tenderness in the affected area.

Changes in Voice or Speech

Another early symptom of oral cancer is a change in voice or speech. If you have trouble speaking or swallowing, or if your voice sounds hoarse or raspy, these may be signs of a problem. This can be caused by a growth or lesion in the throat, or by swelling in the neck or throat.

If you experience changes in your voice or speech, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Pain or Difficulty in Swallowing

It is another early symptom of oral cancer. This can be caused by a growth or lesion in the throat, or by swelling in the neck or throat. If you experience pain or difficulty swallowing, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. They may also recommend a biopsy to determine if the growth or lesion is cancerous.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss is another common early symptom of oral cancer. If you are losing weight without making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, this may be a sign of a problem. This can be caused by the cancer itself, or by the body’s response to the cancer.

If you are experiencing unexplained weight loss, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Red or White Patches in the Mouth

Red or white patches in the mouth are another common early symptom of oral cancer. These patches may be raised or flat, and they may be painful or painless. They may also bleed easily.

If you notice red or white patches in your mouth, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Lump or Swelling in the Mouth or Neck

A lump or swelling in the mouth or neck is another common early symptom of oral cancer. This can be caused by a growth or lesion in the mouth, or by swelling in the neck or throat.

If you notice a lump or swelling in your mouth or neck, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. They may also recommend a biopsy to determine if the growth or lesion is cancerous.

Tooth or Jaw Pain

Tooth or jaw pain is another early symptom of oral cancer. This can be caused by a growth or lesion in the mouth, or by swelling in the jaw. If you experience tooth or jaw pain, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. They may also recommend a biopsy to determine if the growth or lesion is cancerous.

Changes in the Way Your Dentures Fit

Changes in the way your dentures fit can also be an early symptom of oral cancer. If your dentures no longer fit properly, or if they cause discomfort or pain, this may be a sign of a problem.

If you experience changes in the way your dentures fit, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Numbness or Tingling in the Mouth or Face

Numbness or tingling in the mouth or face can also be an early symptom of oral cancer. This can be caused by a growth or lesion in the mouth, or by swelling in the face or neck.

If you experience numbness or tingling in your mouth or face, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a serious condition that can affect the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, or other parts of the face. Early detection is crucial for a successful treatment outcome, and it is important to never ignore the early symptoms of oral cancer. If you experience any of the symptoms discussed in this blog, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and conduct other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms, and they can help you get the treatment you need.

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