Cancer of the mouth and throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, and tonsils, is known as oral cancer. It is a dangerous and sometimes life-threatening condition that can be effectively treated if detected early. In this article, we will discuss everything you should know about oral cancer, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Causes of oral cancer
Oral cancer is caused by the proliferation of abnormal cells in the mouth and throat. While the specific etiology of oral cancer is unknown, there are a number of risk factors that might raise the likelihood of developing the disease. They are:
- Tobacco use: Tobacco use, including smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco products such as chewing tobacco and snuff, is the most significant risk factor for oral cancer. In fact, smokers are six times more likely than nonsmokers to get oral cancer.
- Alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol drinking increases the chance of getting oral cancer. People who consume a lot of alcohol and smoke are at a higher risk for developing this disease.
- HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection increases the chance of getting oral cancer, especially in the tonsils and back of the throat.
- Sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure increases the likelihood of getting lip cancer.
Symptoms of oral cancer
Oral cancer symptoms vary based on the exact location and stage of the cancer. The following are some of the most prevalent signs of oral cancer:
- Mouth ulcers that don't heal
- Patches of red or white in the mouth
- Mouth or neck swelling or lumps
- Chewing, swallowing, or speech difficulties
- Unknown cause of weight loss
- Ear ache
- Bad breath
If you have any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor or dentist as soon as possible. Early identification and treatment of oral cancer can significantly enhance your chances of recovery.
Diagnosis of oral cancer
Oral cancer is often diagnosed using a combination of physical examination and diagnostic procedures. Your doctor or dentist will look for any symptoms of cancer in your mouth and throat, such as lumps, bumps, or sores. They may request one or more of the following diagnostic tests if they suspect you have oral cancer:
- Biopsy: A tiny sample of tissue is taken from a questionable location and analyzed under a microscope to identify the presence of cancer cells.
- X-rays: X-rays may be used to evaluate whether the cancer has progressed to the jaw, chest, or lungs.
- CT scan: A CT scan can offer comprehensive images of the interior of your mouth and throat, helping your doctor out whether the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.
- MRI: An MRI can offer comprehensive images of the interior of your mouth and throat, assisting your doctor in determining the size and extent of the malignancy.
Treatment options for oral cancer
The course of treatment for oral cancer will be determined by a number of criteria, including the tumor's location and stage, as well as your overall health and personal preferences. Some common oral cancer treatment options include surgery, radiation treatment, and chemotherapy.
Surgery may be used to remove cancerous tissue as well as the closest lymph nodes. Reconstructive surgery may be required in some cases to restore the look and function of the mouth and throat. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to eliminate cancer cells. This therapy can be used alone or alongside surgery or chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is the use of chemicals to destroy cancer cells. This therapy can be used alone or in conjunction with radiation therapy or surgery.
In certain cases, a combination of therapies may be required to treat oral cancer successfully. Your doctor will collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your requirements and needs.