Symptoms and Diagnosis
If caught early, oral cancer can be treated successfully in most cases. Most forms of oral cancer can be accurately diagnosed through review of medical history, professional examination, and of course laboratory tests. Location and scope of oral cancers determine the type of treatment necessary. Laboratory testing of a small bit of tissue from an afflicted area enables a decision on the type of treatment required; if diagnosed for oral cancer you may be referred to a specialist for further treatment.
Oral cancer symptoms can include a sore or irritation that persistently remains, white or red patches on your gums, tongue, outside of lips or inside your cheek, a lump, crusty or thick area which may also feel numb. The affected area tends to bleed easily, in some cases swallowing food or moving the tongue becomes difficult and in the early stages is commonly painless. Oral cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
People who smoke cigarettes, cigars, pipes or chew tobacco are more at risk to Oral cancer.
*Always seek a professional medical examination for diagnosis. This information is intended as educational and informational only and does not replace the advice of your health care professional. Not to be relied on to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.