Oral cancer occurs mainly in people 60 years of age and older. Cancerous tumors often appear on the tongue, gums, base of the tongue and the throat area behind the mouth, according to health experts Medical News Today (Older brother).
Unexplained persistent difficulty swallowing could be a warning sign of oral cancer
Because early detection will make it much easier to treat, so patients need to pay attention to abnormal signs in the mouth. If the following symptoms appear, the patient should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Tumors, ulcers, swelling in the mouth
If you check or accidentally discover a sore in your mouth that doesn't go away for several weeks, a persistent lump, or an unexplained bump on your tongue, you need to see a doctor right away.
Also, any bright red, white sores or patches in the mouth should be checked. It could be a smooth sore, also known as erythroplakia, and a sign of precancerous growth. Studies show that more than 80% of smooth sores on biopsy will result in cancer.
Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
If you have trouble swallowing for a long time, it could be a sign of oral cancer. In addition, people with chronic sore throat or hoarseness that last for more than 6 weeks should be screened for oral cancer.
Numb
Oral cancer sores in the early stages are rarely painful. However, as they progress, they become painful, even painful enough to make it difficult to swallow. Not only that, another accompanying sensation is numbness.
Cancer damages the nerves inside the mouth. These nerves are responsible for receiving sensations. Therefore, if they are damaged, the person will experience numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue or face, according to Medical News Today.
