6 Signs That You Might Have Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of people each year. Like many types of cancer, early detection by an LA dentist significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. That’s why it’s vital to pay attention to changes in your mouth and overall health. While not every symptom is an automatic sign of oral cancer, certain warning signs shouldn’t be ignored.
Here are six potential signs that could indicate oral cancer and why it’s essential to take action early.
1. Persistent Mouth Sores
Mouth sores are common, and most heal on their own within a week or two. However, if you notice a sore in your mouth that doesn’t heal even after two weeks, it might be a red flag. Persistent sores, particularly if they are painful or swollen, could be a sign of something more serious, such as oral cancer. A sore that bleeds or doesn’t respond to typical remedies like salt water rinses should be evaluated by a dentist or doctor as soon as possible.
2. Unexplained Bleeding
Occasional bleeding in the mouth, such as from accidentally biting your cheek or brushing too hard, is usually no cause for alarm. However, consistent or unexplained bleeding is a different story. If your gums, tongue, or the inside of your mouth bleed without reason, it’s crucial to have this checked out. Bleeding may indicate abnormal tissue changes or damage that could be linked to oral cancer or other serious conditions.
3. Lumps or Thickened Areas in the Mouth
One key indicator of oral cancer is the presence of lumps, bumps, or areas that feel thickened inside your mouth or throat. This could include the gums, tongue, or cheek lining. Often, these growths feel different from the rest of your oral tissue. Even if these lumps are painless, they should not be ignored. A tumor or abnormal growth could signal the early stages of oral cancer. Your healthcare provider may recommend a biopsy to determine the nature of these lumps.
4. Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing
If you suddenly experience discomfort or pain when swallowing or chewing, it may be more than just a temporary issue. Some people also feel like there is something stuck in their throat or have trouble moving their jaw and tongue. These symptoms could suggest a tumor is forming in the throat, back of the mouth, or other areas related to swallowing. Over time, untreated growths or abnormalities can worsen these symptoms, making early diagnosis critical.
5. Changes in Voice or Speech
A change in your voice, such as persistent hoarseness, or difficulty in pronouncing words, could also indicate oral cancer. Growths or swelling in the vocal cords, throat, or mouth can interfere with your ability to speak clearly. If your voice changes and hasn’t returned to normal after a week or two, it’s important to seek medical advice. Pay particular attention if this symptom occurs alongside other warning signs like throat pain or swelling.
6. Unexplained Weight Loss
Many types of cancer, including oral cancer, can result in sudden, unintentional weight loss. This is often because cancerous cells cause your body to burn more energy than usual, or because other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing make it harder to consume enough food. If you find that you’re losing weight without changes to your diet or exercise habits, it’s a good idea to look into the cause promptly.
Conclusion
Oral cancer can develop in anyone, but certain factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, excessive sun exposure to the lips, and HPV infection, increase the risk. Regardless of risk factors, early detection is key to improving treatment outcomes. The earlier oral cancer is caught, the higher the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic, but don’t ignore them either. Schedule a visit with your dentist or healthcare provider for a professional evaluation.
