Oral cancers can occur in any part of the oral cavity that includes the lips, tongue, throat, pharynx, larynx, salivary glands or even the maxillary sinuses. Early diagnosis helps in early treatment and removal of oral cancer. Early diagnosis of oral cancer is possible only in cases where visible symptoms appear.
The visible signs and symptoms of cancer include:
• Patches
Patches are seen in your mouth and the patches can be red or white in colour. Patches looks like thrush but cannot be scraped off from the mouth.
• Lumps
Lumps appear on the tongue. All lumps are not cancerous, but it is recommended to examine the lumps to avoid any complications.
• Mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers are very common among people. Mouth ulcers do not heal in patients suffering with oral cancer and it will be very painful. In few severe cases small portion of the infected part like tongue where the ulcers appear can be removed.
• Inflammation
Inflammation and swelling is seen in mouth and can become severe as the infection progresses.
• Pain
Oral cancer patients experience pain while chewing and swelling the food.
Throat cancer patients experience problems in swallowing or the feeling of an object that is stuck in your throat. Throat cancer patients experience numbness, tingling sensation, or tenderness in any part of the oral cavity. In later stages the patients will face the problems like inability to chew, swallow, speech also could be hampered.
The cancers that are related to the tooth, you may find that your teeth maybe mobile and there is no involvement of dental caries and periodontal disease.
