Mouth cancer, also referred to as oral cancer, is an oft-overlooked form of the disease. Though mouth cancer is not as prevalent as other forms of the disease, a 2015 study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Pathology noted it is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, perhaps making this form of the disease worthy of additional attention from the general public.
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes mouth cancer is most closely linked to tobacco and alcohol use. However, even non-smokers and individuals who do not drink can develop mouth cancer. The MSKCC reports that mouth cancer is typically diagnosed after a dentist notices symptoms during routine exams, which is one of many reasons to schedule dental exams and cleanings at least twice per year. In addition to making dental exams part of their regular health care routine, individuals can keep an eye out for these warning signs of mouth cancer.
· Mouth ulcers that are not healing: The MSKCC notes this is a common symptom that is present in most people with mouth cancer. This is marked by a broken area of skin that will not heal.
· Pain in the mouth: The MSKCC notes that persistent pain in the mouth that does not subside is another common symptom of mouth cancer.
· White or red patches in the mouth or throat: This symptom might be hard for individuals to spot, particularly if the patches are in the throat. The MSKCC notes that a fungal infection known as oral thrush can cause red patches (erythroplakia) and white patches (leukoplakia) as well. Though the presence of these patches are not evidence of cancer, they can lead to cancer if left untreated.
· Difficulty swallowing: A burning sensation when chewing or swallowing food may be indicative of mouth cancer. The MSKCC notes that some people with mouth cancer feel as though food is sticking in their throat. Some people also cough or feel as though liquid is entering their windpipe. Difficulty swallowing and chewing compels some people to eat less, which is why unexplained weight loss is another warning sign for mouth cancer.
· Speech problems: Changes to one’s voice is another potential warning sign of mouth cancer. A voice may sound quieter or husky, and some people’s voices may sound as if they have a cold all the time. The MSKCC notes that some people slur words or experience difficulty pronouncing certain sounds when they have developed mouth cancer.
· A lump in the neck: Swelling in one or more lymph nodes in the neck is a common symptom of mouth cancer, and people with this sign may feel as though they have a lump in their neck. If a lump in the neck is slowly growing bigger, that is a warning sign for mouth cancer. Lumps that come and go are not typically a byproduct of cancer, according to the MSKCC.
· Additional warning signs: A lump or thickening in the lip, a lump in the mouth or throat, unusual bleeding or numbness in the mouth, loose teeth with no apparent reason, and difficulty moving the jaw are some additional warning signs of mouth cancer.
Mouth cancer is not as common as other forms of the disease, but it can still be deadly if left untreated. More information is available at mskcc.org.
