Unfortunately, cancer is a disease that most people have been affected by, either directly or indirectly. Oral cancer, including cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, sinuses, and throat, can be life threatening if left undiagnosed or untreated. Men, especially over the age of fifty, are at the greatest risk for developing oral cancer. And those with a history of smoking, long-term and excessive alcohol consumption, a family history of cancer, or long-term sun exposure, are most at risk. However, approximately twenty-five percent of oral cancer sufferers are non-smokers and casual drinkers.
Below are some of the most common symptoms of oral cancer:
Mouth sores and/or mouth pain that persists
Mouth sores that bleed easily and do not heal
Difficulty swallowing or chewing
A lump in the cheek or the neck
White or red patches on the gums, tonsils, tongue, or inside of the mouth
Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
Sudden and noticeable weight loss
Voice changes, hoarseness, or a chronic sore throat
Pain in the teeth or jaw
A feeling like something is caught in the back of the throat
To help prevent oral cancer, we suggest avoiding smoking, the use of tobacco products, and binge drinking. Also, be sure to use sunscreen lotions on your skin as well as on your lips and to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet.
Plymouth Ear, Nose and Throat is happy to help you with your concerns regarding head and neck cancer. Please give us a call at 508-746-8977 to schedule an appointment!