Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat.

Some common symptoms of oral cancer include difficulty chewing or swallowing, mouth sores that don’t heal, and lumps or thick patches in the mouth. Early detection is critical to successful treatment, so it’s important to recognize the warning signs of oral cancer. In this article, we will discuss 30 warning signs that should not be ignored.

1. Mouth Sores

Having a mouth sore that doesn’t heal can be a sign of oral cancer. These sores may bleed and last for weeks or months.

2. White or Red Patches

White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or other areas inside the mouth can also be a sign of oral cancer. These patches may be painless or cause discomfort.

3. Trouble Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be caused by a variety of factors, including oral cancer. If you find it difficult to swallow food or liquids, it’s important to consult your dentist or doctor.

4. Unexplained Bleeding

Bleeding from the mouth without an obvious cause, such as gum disease or injury, can be a warning sign of oral cancer. If you experience unexplained bleeding, you should see your dentist or doctor right away.

5. Numbness or Tingling

Numbness or tingling in the mouth, lips, or tongue can be a symptom of oral cancer. These sensations may be mild or severe and may come and go.

6. Pain or Discomfort

Pain or discomfort in the mouth, jaw, or neck can be a symptom of oral cancer. These symptoms may be persistent or come and go.

7. Swelling

Swelling in the mouth, jaw, or neck can be a sign of oral cancer. This swelling may be accompanied by pain or discomfort and may be caused by a tumor.

8. Changes in Speech

Changes in speech, such as hoarseness or a change in tone, can be a warning sign of oral cancer. These changes may be caused by a tumor that is affecting the vocal cords or other areas of the mouth or throat.

9. Difficulty Moving the Tongue or Jaw

If you have trouble moving your tongue or jaw, it may be a sign of oral cancer. This can be caused by a tumor that is pressing on the nerves or muscles that control these movements.

10. Ear Pain or Ringing

Ear pain or ringing in the ears can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. These symptoms may indicate that the cancer has spread to the nearby lymph nodes.

11. Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be another warning sign of oral cancer. While bad breath can be caused by a variety of factors, it’s important to have it checked out by a dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.

12. Loose Teeth

Loose teeth can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. This can be caused by a tumor that is affecting the surrounding bone tissue.

13. Difficulty Wearing Dentures

If you have difficulty wearing dentures, it may be a sign of oral cancer. This can be caused by a tumor that is affecting the shape or size of the jaw.

14. Coughing or Wheezing

Coughing or wheezing can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. This can be caused by a tumor that is affecting the airways or causing inflammation in the respiratory system.

15. Sore Throat

A persistent sore throat can be a warning sign of oral cancer. This sore throat may feel like a lump in the throat and may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing.

16. Swollen lymph nodes

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can be a sign that oral cancer has spread. These swollen nodes may be painless or tender to the touch.

17. Changes in Bite

If you notice a change in your bite or the way your teeth fit together, it may be a sign of oral cancer. This can be caused by a tumor that is affecting the alignment of the teeth or surrounding bone tissue.

18. Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of oral cancer. This weight loss may be caused by a tumor that is affecting the digestive system or causing a loss of appetite.

19. Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. This sweating may be localized to the head and neck or may be generalized throughout the body.

20. Fatigue

Fatigue can be a symptom of many different conditions, including oral cancer. If you experience persistent fatigue or tiredness, it’s important to consult your doctor or dentist.

21. Fever

A fever can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. This fever may be low-grade or high-grade and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as chills or sweating.

22. Headaches

Headaches can be a symptom of many different conditions, including oral cancer. If you experience persistent headaches, it’s important to consult your doctor or dentist.

23. Vision Changes

Changes in vision, such as blurring or double vision, can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. These changes may be caused by a tumor that is affecting the nerves that control vision.

24. Weakness or Numbness in Limbs

Weakness or numbness in the limbs can be a sign of oral cancer. This can be caused by a tumor that is affecting the nerves that control movement or sensation.

25. Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea or vomiting can be a symptom of many different conditions, including oral cancer. If you experience persistent nausea or vomiting, it’s important to consult your doctor or dentist.

26. Changes in Appetite

Changes in appetite can be a symptom of oral cancer. This may include a loss of appetite, increased hunger, or changes in taste.

27. Rash or Skin Changes

Rashes or skin changes in the head and neck area can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. These changes may be caused by a tumor that is affecting the skin or blood vessels.

28. Persistent Hiccups

Persistent hiccups can be a sign of oral cancer. These hiccups may last for days or even weeks and can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.

29. Depression or Anxiety

Depression or anxiety can be a symptom of many different conditions, including oral cancer. If you experience persistent feelings of depression or anxiety, it’s important to consult your doctor or dentist.

30. Unexplained Pain

Unexplained pain in the head, neck, or mouth can be a sign of oral cancer. This pain may be mild or severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling or numbness.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a serious condition that can have devastating consequences if left untreated. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of oral cancer and seek prompt medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

Early detection is key to successful treatment, so don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist or doctor if you have any concerns.