Symptoms of Oral Cancer
The most common symptom of oral cancer is a sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal. Other common symptoms include:
Pain – A sore or ulcer that is painful or that causes a burning sensation.
Changes in the Tissues – Swelling, thickening, roughening, or a lump in the mouth or on the lip.
Bleeding – Spontaneous or on contact with a toothbrush, floss, or other object.
Red or White Lesions – Discoloration of the tissue in the mouth.
Difficulty Swallowing – Feeling like food or liquids are getting stuck in the throat.
Weight Loss – Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of oral cancer.
Unexplained Fatigue – Ongoing fatigue without any other known cause.
Hoarseness – Changes in the voice that last for more than two weeks.
Diagnosis of Oral Cancer
If you have any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Oral cancer is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and a biopsy of the affected area. Your doctor may also order imaging tests such as x-rays or a CT scan to look for tumors or other abnormalities.