Early signs of oral malignancy?

Ans. Oral cancer or malignancy generally occurs in the tissue of the mouth and throat; it include lips, gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, inner part of cheek, tonsils, jaw bone etc. on the basis of location the sign and symptoms varies.

In a very early stage, it rarely causes pain, so it goes unnoticed for long unless it comes up in dental examinations. The sign and symptoms differ from person to person, and their health. There are few common early sign of oral malignancy:

• Ulcer; usual depression in the centre.
• Chronic swelling that persist for more the 3 weeks.
• Red, white or yellow patches on the gums, inner cheek or tongue.
• Lumps, which are not tender on palpitation.
• Difficulty in swallowing or eating.
• Sudden loss of appetite.
• Altered sense of taste.
• Bleeding; in gums or through the nose.
• Bed breath or halitosis that does not go away with treatment.
• Weight loss, fatigue, and general weakness.
• Chronic ear pain.

It is to be noted that 75% cases of oral malignancy occurs in individuals who smoke or drink regularly. If, any of the above signs and symptoms are persistent for more than 3 weeks, it is advisable that you report it to your physician or dentist immediately. The clinician will carry out a few tests and might suggest a biopsy to get a definitive diagnosis for detecting oral malignancy.