5 Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

One of the best things that you can do for your health is to be in tune with your body. By understanding what is normal and what is abnormal, you will be able to detect things such as early signs of oral cancer or any other abnormalities. Caused primarily by tobacco use, oral cancer can quickly spread from your mouth to other parts of your body. If you are a tobacco user or have a family history of oral cancer, it’s important for you to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms. This article will discuss five warning signs of oral cancer that you should be aware of. Read on to learn more.

1. Patches in Your Mouth

Things like canker sores can leave a white spot or two in your mouth. However, if you have oral cancer, you will notice that you have several white or red patches all across your mouth— primarily on your inner cheeks and the roof of your mouth.

2. Difficulty Chewing and Swallowing

If you have ever experienced a panic attack, you may have noticed that it felt like your throat was closing up— making it difficult to swallow. If you are experiencing the difficulty swallowing without the anxiety, this could be indicative of oral cancer.

3. A Lump

Have you noticed a lump on the skin thickening on the inside of your mouth? If you have and it isn’t going away, this could be a cancerous tumor.

4. Chronic Sore Throat

If you have a sore throat that won’t go away with natural remedies and time, and you have tested negative for strep throat, this is another sign of oral cancer. Make sure to follow-up with your primary care provider if your sore throat does not subside after a week or two.

5. Sensitive Sore

Watch for sores in your mouth that don’t heal on their own, and that bleed easily— this could be a sign that your body is trying to fight cancer but is unable to do so.

Luckily, if caught early on, most oral cancers can easily be treated. If you would like to learn more about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, contact Dr. Leslie H. Sultan today!