Oral Cancer: Symptom, Causes and Treatment

You're probably reading this blog because you're concerned about a sore in your mouth that won't heal. Maybe you're struggling with discomfort or unusual changes and wondering if it could be serious. Or perhaps someone close to you has been recently diagnosed with oral cancer, and you want to learn more about it.

No matter why you are here, understanding oral cancer, its symptoms, and treatment options can make a huge difference in you and your loved one's life. If you or any of your family members are experiencing similar symptoms, please consult the best oncologist at CK Birla Hospital, Jaipur.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer, popularly known as mouth cancer, can develop in any part of your mouth. It may include lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheek, roof of the mouth, and floor of the mouth (under the tongue). Sometimes, it is also called oral cavity cancer. Oral cancer lies in the head and neck cancer categories, and it is often treated in ways similar to other cancers in this group.

What are the stages of oral cancer?

Oral cancer develops in several stages. It begins with local abnormal cells and grows rapidly. It is classified into four stages, ranging from stage 0 (when the cancer is confined) to stage IV (when it has spread to distant parts of the body). Each stage reflects the size of the tumour, how deeply it has invaded nearby tissues, and whether it has reached lymph nodes or other areas.

Stage 0

• This is the earliest stage of oral cancer.
• Abnormal cells are found in the lining of the mouth but haven’t invaded deeper tissues or spread to other areas.
• Often, there are no noticeable symptoms. Regular testing or screening is essential for early detection.

Stage I

• The tumour is tiny, measuring 2 cm or less, and is localised to one area.
• Cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes or other surrounding tissues.
• Treatment at this stage has a high success rate and involves surgery or radiation.

Stage II

• The tumor is larger, measuring between 2 cm and 4 cm.
• Cancer still hasn’t spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant areas.
• This stage may require a combination of surgery and radiation to prevent further growth.

Stage III

• The tumour is now over 4 cm or has spread to a single nearby lymph node.
• The affected lymph node is no larger than 3 cm.
• At this stage, cancer may start affecting nearby tissues and treatment often includes surgery, radiation and possibly chemotherapy.

Stage IV

• This is the last stage of cancer, because it has spread significantly.
• It may also involve nearby tissues, large lymph nodes, or distant body organs such as the lungs.
• Treatment is more intensive. It may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy to manage symptoms.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

• Loose teeth that don’t appear to have any cause
• Lumps or growths inside your mouth
• Constant and persistent pain in your mouth
• Pain in your ear
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
• Sores on your lips or inside your mouth that don’t heal
• White or red patches inside your mouth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor or dentist for further evaluation.

What are the causes of oral cancer?

• Smoking: Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing, irritates mouth tissues and increases the risk.
• Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Failing to maintain proper oral care leads to various oral issues, which may contribute to the development of oral cancer.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can damage the cells in the mouth, which can lead to cancer.
• HPV (human papillomavirus): Certain types of HPV are linked to oral cancer, especially in young people.
• Unbalanced diet: Consuming foods rich in sugar and refined carbohydrates can increase the risk of cancer.

What are the best treatment options for oral cancer?

Three main treatment options for oral cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Your doctor provides the best treatment plan, depending on the type of cancer, complexity, and size. The treatment may include drugs, antibodies, and therapies such as:

• Radiation therapy: In this treatment, high-energy X-rays are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
• Targeted therapy: It uses drugs or monoclonal antibodies to target cancer cells to stop their growth. These drugs may be used with and without other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Chemotherapy: This involves anti-cancer drugs that kill cancer cells that often affect the entire body.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment is designed to boost your immune system so it can fight cancer cells. This is also known as biological therapy.

CTA

If you experience persistent pain or notice unusual lesions in your mouth, don't wait. See your doctor.

Final Words

Oral cancer is the most common cancer that lies in the head and neck cancer categories. It can develop in any part of your mouth, such as the tongue, gums, and throat. It often starts silently. Although habits such as smoking or excessive drinking are the main risk factors, they can affect anyone. Regular health check-ups and recognising the early symptoms can prevent you from serious complications.

FAQs

 

What is the first sign of oral cancer?

The first signs often include a sore in the mouth that won't heal, a lump, or a persistent white or red spot inside the mouth.

Is oral cancer curable?

Yes, oral cancer is curable, especially if it is detected early and treated promptly with surgery, radiation, or other treatments.

Can oral cancer kill you?

If not treated early, oral cancer can be fatal. Early detection and treatment are important to improve survival rates.