Recognizing the Early Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 15, 2024

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Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is one of the more common types of cancer in the United States. Each year, approximately 53,000 new cases are diagnosed. While both men and women are at risk, men are more likely to develop this type of cancer, with about 1 in 75 men and 1 in 150 women affected. The good news is that when detected early, mouth cancer can be successfully treated in 80 to 90 percent of cases. However, if it progresses without treatment, the survival rate drops to about 40 percent. Let’s take a closer look at some of the symptoms to watch for.

Sores and Ulcers: When Healing Takes Too Long

One of the most common signs of mouth cancer is the presence of sores and ulcers in the mouth. These may vary in size and can appear on the tongue, inside the cheeks, on the gums, or even in the throat. While sores and ulcers are common and can be caused by many things, persistent sores that don’t heal after a few days or weeks could indicate something more serious. If a sore lingers or worsens over time, it’s best to consult a doctor to rule out mouth cancer.

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Patches in the Mouth and Throat: Red Flags for Cancer

Another typical symptom of mouth cancer is the appearance of red or white patches inside the mouth or throat. These patches can be smooth or rough and may remain for extended periods. While some patches may come and go, others persist without explanation. If these patches don’t clear up in a few days, it’s crucial to seek medical advice to determine whether they are linked to oral cancer.

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Persistent Sore Throat: A Warning Sign Not to Ignore

A sore throat that just won’t go away can be more than just an annoyance. Persistent throat pain is another symptom of mouth cancer, especially if it's accompanied by difficulty swallowing or a burning sensation. In some cases, the throat may become red and swollen, potentially leading to bleeding. Though a sore throat could be caused by strep throat or other infections, if it doesn’t resolve in a reasonable amount of time, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out more serious conditions, including cancer.

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Hoarse Voice: Could It Be More Than a Cold?

A hoarse voice often results from talking too much or a simple cold, but if it lingers without a clear cause, it could be something more. In the case of mouth or throat cancer, a person’s voice may change, becoming husky, raspy, or nasal. If voice changes occur suddenly or last longer than expected despite rest and treatment, it may be time to consult a doctor. Don’t shrug off unexplained hoarseness, as it could be an early warning sign of something serious.

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Bad Breath: A Clue to Something Bigger

Bad breath, or halitosis, is often linked to poor oral hygiene or certain foods, but when it’s caused by cancer, it won’t go away easily. Cancerous tumors in the mouth can cause chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing, mouthwash, or gum. If persistent bad breath accompanies other symptoms like sores, patches, or pain, it’s worth seeking medical attention to check for mouth cancer.

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Lumps in the Neck: Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are another potential symptom of mouth cancer. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in fighting infection and destroying damaged cells, but when mouth cancer develops, it can cause the lymph nodes in the neck to swell. These lumps may be felt with your fingers, especially around the neck and behind the ears. Unlike swollen lymph nodes caused by infection, those linked to cancer tend to remain enlarged or grow over time, making it important to get them checked by a healthcare professional.

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Weight Loss: A Common Cancer Symptom

Unexplained weight loss is a symptom seen in many cancers, including mouth cancer. Since the mouth plays a direct role in consuming food, tumors and sores in the mouth can make eating painful, leading to reduced appetite and calorie intake. Over time, this results in weight loss. If you or someone you know experiences significant weight loss without trying, especially alongside other symptoms, it could be a sign of mouth cancer and should be discussed with a doctor.

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Pain in the Mouth: Don’t Assume It’s a Dental Issue

Mouth pain can be easy to overlook, as many people assume it’s due to a dental problem. However, if the pain persists for an extended period and is concentrated in areas like the gums or under the tongue, it could be a sign of something more serious, like mouth cancer. If you’re dealing with chronic mouth pain without a clear cause, it’s important to get it checked out by a healthcare professional.

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Unexplained Bleeding: A Potential Early Sign

Bleeding from the mouth can be alarming, but it doesn’t always mean cancer. Many issues, including gum disease or injury, can cause bleeding. However, if the bleeding is frequent and there’s no clear reason, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor. Bleeding due to mouth cancer can happen regularly, not just from brushing or flossing. It’s important to pay attention to any bleeding, particularly if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms like sores or pain.

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Stiffness of the Mouth and Jaw: Restricted Movement

A healthy mouth should allow for easy movement of the tongue and jaw without discomfort. However, if you start to experience stiffness or pain when moving these areas, it could be linked to mouth cancer. Swollen lymph nodes or tumors can restrict movement and cause pain when opening the mouth or chewing. If you notice difficulty with these basic functions, it’s worth seeing a doctor to get a thorough evaluation.

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