What are the Early Symptoms of Mouth Cancer?

All about Early Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer or oral cancer arises in the area of the oral cavity, such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth (palate), sinuses, and throat. Early detection of mouth cancer is crucial for effective treatment and a better prognosis, just like with many types of cancer. However, doctors diagnose mouth cancer in the late stages. Early symptoms are vague and can be confused with other minor conditions, such as infections or sores, making diagnosis difficult.  

Early Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

Identifying and understanding early symptoms can greatly increase the possibility of successful treatment. Here are the early symptoms of mouth cancer:

1. Recurring Mouth Sores

One of the most frequent initial signs of mouth cancer is an unhealing sore in the mouth that fails to heal within two to three weeks. Cancerous sores are generally painless initially and do not indicate healing as opposed to canker sores or trivial damage from cheek biting. They tend to bleed easily and may be seen on the gums, tongue, lips, or inside lining of the cheeks.

2. Lumps or Thickened Areas

A lump or swollen area of tissue in the neck or mouth can be an early sign of oral cancer. These bumps might be hard and rough to touch and can arise anywhere in the mouth, such as on the tongue, the floor of the mouth, or the gums. Moreover, they tend to develop slowly and may not hurt.

3. Red or White Patches

Red, white, or mixed red and white lesions in the mouth can be warning signs. They are not always cancerous if they appear this way. However, they are sometimes precancerous changes if they persist and do not recede. Leukoplakia is associated with irritation or a sign of incipient cancer, whereas erythroplakia is more likely to be malignant.

4. Unexplained Bleeding

Unsolicited, painless bleeding in the mouth that is not due to gum disease, hard brushing, or trauma may indicate mouth cancer. Therefore, a healthcare provider should check for frequent or causeless bleeding.

5. Pain or Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Early oral cancer can cause discomfort or pain while swallowing. If this symptom persists or is associated with a sensation of food being stuck in the throat, it is particularly worrying. This could be a sign that cancer has occurred in adjacent tissues, the throat or the oesophagus.

6. Loose Teeth or Ill-Fitting Dentures

If you find one tooth loose for no apparent reason (such as trauma or periodontal disease) or your dentures do not fit anymore, it may indicate a hidden disease in the gum or jaw due to a tumour.

7. Numbness or Tingling

Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the tongue, lips, or other areas of the mouth is an alarming symptom. It may be a sign that cancer is involving the nerves in the area. This may happen even without sores or lumps being visible.

8. Voice Changes or Sore Throat

Persistent hoarseness, voice changes, or a persistent sore throat that will not go away can be a sign of cancer of the mouth or oropharynx. Although these are more typical signs of laryngeal or throat cancers, they can present with cancers originating in the back of the tongue or the rear of the mouth.

9. Stiffness or Pain in the Jaw

Difficulty in opening the mouth completely or in moving the jaw can indicate that cancer is invading the jawbone or surrounding tissues. This can be accompanied by swelling, pain, or aching that worsens over time.

10. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue

Doctors must not overlook general indicators like unexplained weight loss or chronic fatigue. If paired with other oral symptoms, these might indicate a more developed phase of cancer.

Early mouth cancer detection greatly enhances the prospect of successful treatment. Periodic check-ups at the dentist, especially for those at greater risk (tobacco users, heavy drinkers, and those infected with HPV), can spot initial warning signs before the disease advances. Furthermore, home examination with a mirror and good lighting can also assist individuals in recognising abnormal mouth changes. If any of the above symptoms last for over two weeks, it is crucial to obtain early medical or dental consultation.