The Symptoms of Oral Cancer

When it comes to oral health, certain signs and symptoms should not be ignored. A persistent mouth sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal, whether painful or not, warrants attention. Similarly, red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or mouth lining can indicate abnormal cellular changes, possibly precancerous or indicative of oral cancer. Swelling or lumps in the mouth, throat, or neck could signal tumor growth or lymph node involvement, especially in advanced stages of oral cancer. Difficulty or pain while chewing, swallowing, or speaking may result from tumors obstructing normal oral functions. Persistent sore throat or hoarseness might indicate underlying issues, such as oral cancer affecting the throat or vocal cords. Numbness in the mouth or tongue could be a result of nerve involvement due to oral cancer. Unexplained weight loss is another symptom that should raise concern, as it may result from difficulty eating due to pain or swallowing issues caused by tumors. Persistent ear pain, particularly on one side, could also be a symptom. Finally, bad breath that persists despite proper oral hygiene practices might be a sign of oral cancer and should not be ignored.