Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of people every year. It can be a life-threatening disease if not detected and treated early.
While many people are aware of some common signs and symptoms of oral cancer, there are also some uncommon indicators that should not be ignored. In this article, we will discuss these less known signs of oral cancer that you need to know about.
1. Persistent Ear Pain
One of the uncommon signs of oral cancer is persistent ear pain. If you experience unexplained earaches or dull pain in your ears that doesn’t go away after some time, it could be a sign of oral cancer.
The ear pain may be a result of the cancer spreading to the nerves around the ear.
2. Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty in swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of various health conditions, including oral cancer.
If you face trouble while swallowing, especially if it’s accompanied by other oral cancer symptoms like persistent hoarseness or a sore throat, it’s important to consult a doctor for further evaluation.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is often considered a sign of an underlying health issue. If you are losing weight without trying or without any changes in your diet or exercise routine, it may be a cause for concern.
In some cases, this weight loss can be a symptom of oral cancer.
4. Chronic Bad Breath
While bad breath can be a consequence of poor oral hygiene or certain foods, it can also be a sign of oral cancer.
If you have persistently bad breath that doesn’t improve with proper dental care, it is worth contacting your dentist or physician to rule out any potential oral health issues, including cancer.
5. Numbness or Tingling
If you experience numbness or tingling sensations in your mouth, lips, or tongue, it may be a lesser-known sign of oral cancer.
This sensation could indicate that the cancer has affected certain nerves in your oral cavity, and it should not be overlooked.
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6. White or Red Patches
White or red patches appearing on the soft tissues of your mouth, such as the gums and tongue, could be an indication of oral cancer.
These patches might be painless, but it’s essential to have them examined by a dental professional to rule out any potential problems.
7. Loose Teeth
If you notice that your teeth have become loose without any apparent cause, it may be a symptom of oral cancer. Cancer can weaken the bone structure supporting the teeth, leading to loosening and shifting of teeth.
8. Persistent Jaw Pain
While occasional jaw pain is common, persistent or chronic jaw pain could be a sign of oral cancer.
If the pain doesn’t subside within a reasonable timeframe or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
9. Chronic Hoarseness
Chronic hoarseness or voice changes that last for weeks without any apparent reason can be an indication of oral cancer.
If you experience persistent hoarseness or voice alterations, it’s advisable to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.
10. Pain or Difficulty Moving the Jaw or Tongue
Oral cancer can affect the mobility of your jaw or tongue, causing pain, stiffness, or difficulty in moving these structures.
Any restrictions in jaw or tongue movement that last for a significant period warrant prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.
It is important to note that these uncommon signs may also be symptoms of other less severe conditions. However, it is essential not to ignore persistent or unusual changes in your oral health.
If you notice any of these signs, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and appropriate diagnosis.
