Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Introduction

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in India, yet it often goes unnoticed in its early stages. The reason is simple: most symptoms appear mild and painless at first, leading people to ignore them until the disease has progressed. However, early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes, survival rates, and quality of life. This makes awareness one of the strongest tools in preventing advanced oral cancer.

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer refers to any cancer that develops in the mouth or surrounding regions such as the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, and throat (oropharynx). It most commonly begins as a small, painless spot or lesion that gradually grows. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HIV infection, poor oral hygiene, and prolonged sun exposure are some major risk factors. However, anyone can develop oral cancer, even without these habits.

Most Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer

1. Persistent Mouth Sores That Don’t Heal :- A normal mouth ulcer typically heals within 7–14 days. However, if you notice a sore, lesion, or patch that isn’t healing even after three weeks, it may be a red flag. These sores may appear on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or lips. They can sometimes bleed or worsen with time. Any wound that refuses to heal is one of the earliest warning signs of oral cancer.
2. Red or White Patches Inside the Mouth :- Two types of abnormal patches may indicate pre-cancer or cancer:

• Leukoplakia: Thick, white patches
• Erythroplakia: Bright red patches

Both require a dental/ENT evaluation. Red patches are often more concerning because they have a higher chance of being precancerous. If you notice unusual discoloration in your mouth, especially without any known cause (like biting your cheek), seek medical attention.

3. A Lump or Thickening in the Mouth or Neck :- A painless lump in the cheek, jaw, or neck is a common symptom of oral cancer. This happens when cancer cells accumulate and form a mass.

You might feel:

• A hard spot inside the mouth
• A swollen lymph node in the neck
• Thickening of the cheek lining

These lumps may not be painful initially, which is why many people ignore them. Any unexplained lump lasting more than two weeks must be checked.

4. Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing :- Oral cancer can make everyday actions like chewing food, swallowing water, or moving the tongue difficult. You may feel like food is getting “stuck” or experience pain while chewing. This complication often occurs when a tumor grows near the throat, base of the tongue, or inner cheeks. Difficulty swallowing (called dysphagia) should never be ignored.

5. Numbness or Loss of Sensation :- If you feel numbness in the tongue, lips, or parts of your mouth for no clear reason, it might indicate nerve involvement caused by a tumor. This symptom is often ignored because it is painless. But sudden or persistent numbness is a serious early sign of oral cancer.

6. Persistent Bad Breath :- Chronic bad breath (halitosis) that doesn’t improve even after brushing or using mouthwash can be linked to oral cancer. Tumors often cause tissue breakdown, infection, and bacterial accumulation, leading to foul-smelling breath. If your breath issue is new or persistent, get it evaluated.

7. Unexplained Pain in the Mouth or Ear :- Pain may arise in

• The jaw
• Tongue
• Throat
• Ears

Ear pain (especially on one side) without an ear infection is often an indirect sign of oropharyngeal cancer. Pain that gets worse while speaking or swallowing needs urgent attention.

8. Changes in Voice :- Hoarseness or changes in voice can occur when oral cancer spreads toward the throat or larynx. If your voice sounds different for more than two weeks without a cold or infection, consult a doctor.
9. Loose Teeth or Denture Problems :- Oral cancer can weaken the bone around the teeth, causing:

• Loose or shifting teeth
• Dentures that no longer fit well
• Pain while wearing dentures

Dentists often detect oral cancer during routine check-ups for this reason.

10. Unintentional Weight Loss :- Weight loss is a late symptom and often signifies advanced cancer. Difficulty swallowing or pain while eating can lead to reduced food intake, contributing to sudden weight loss.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain groups have a higher chance of developing it:

1. People who consume tobacco (smoking or chewing)
2. Heavy alcohol drinkers
3. Those with HPV infection
4. Individuals with poor oral hygiene
5. People with prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer)
6. Men above 40 years

Being in a high-risk category means even minor symptoms should be taken seriously.

When Should You Visit a Doctor?

You should seek medical help if

1. A sore or patch hasn’t healed for more than two to three weeks
2. You see unusual growths or discolorations in the mouth
3. You experience difficulty swallowing or persistent pain
4. You feel lumps in the mouth, jaw, or neck

Early detection through oral screening can save lives.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is treatable especially when caught early. Recognizing symptoms and responding quickly is the best way to prevent serious complications. If you notice anything unusual in your mouth, don’t wait for it to worsen. A simple screening can make all the difference.

Staying aware, avoiding risk factors, and maintaining good oral hygiene can significantly reduce the chances of developing oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups are equally important, as dentists can detect early changes that may not be visible to you.