With April being the Oral Cancer Awareness month, it is the perfect opportunity to talk about the symptoms of this deadly disease. Oral cancer, just like any other type of cancer, can happen unpredictably. However, one can still take steps to protect themselves.
About 70% of Illinois men get diagnosed with oral cancer. With an early diagnosis, it is possible to prevent death. A general dentist in Chicago, IL can tell you whether you have signs of oral cancer and refer you to a specialist.
What causes oral cancer?
About 40,000 citizens this year have been diagnosed with oral cancer in America. Every year, this devastating illness takes about 8,000 people’s lives. Patients who are diagnosed with oral cancers do not survive more than five years after their diagnosis.
Although it is nearly impossible to determine which person may develop oral cancer, some potential factors may lead to oral cancer. In order to mitigate the risk, you must know about these.
- Patients who develop oral cancer are all above the age of 40 years. Therefore, age is a certain factor.
- The use of tobacco can also lead to oral cancer, whether through smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Excessive drinking or alcohol consumption.
- Low fruits and vegetables diet.
- Persistent viral infections, like HPV16.
It is important to know that men are six times at a greater risk of developing oral cancer than women.
Symptoms and signs of oral cancer.
For effective treatment, the detection of oral cancer in the early stages is very crucial. However, some signs and symptoms of oral cancer are as follows:
- A sore in your mouth or on the lips that does not heal.
- Persistent pain in the mouth.
- Weight loss
- Pain or swelling in the jaw
- Sore throat
- Trouble swallowing or chewing
- Trouble moving the tongue or jaw
- Changes in your voice
- Loose or painful teeth
- Ear pain
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by diseases other than oral cancer. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above for more than two weeks, visit a doctor immediately to know the cause and start treatment.
Treating oral cancer– is it possible?
After a patient is diagnosed with oral cancer, the treatment starts with a multidisciplinary team, including dentists, surgeons, nutritionists, oncologists, and rehabilitation and restorative specialists.
Depending on how much the cancer has progressed and several risk factors, a treatment plan is established for each patient. Every patient undergoes a different treatment procedure. However, some of the common methods include radiation, chemotherapy, and potential surgery.
It is possible to fight oral cancer when you take the right steps at the right time. If you are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, call your dentist today!
