Oral cancer is highly treatable in its early stages, so it is important not to overlook its symptoms, such as spots, ulcers, growths and swellings on the oral mucosa. Anna Denis, a dental surgeon at the DocDent clinic, told socialbites.ca about this.
“Symptoms of oral cancer may include red or white spots, lumps, bumps (not related to trauma), growths on the mucous membrane, a small, hardened ulcer on the lips that does not heal for more than 10-14 days and may cause bleeding. Such ulcers on the gums bleed at the slightest pressure.
If the patient does not have an infection, enlarged and hardened lymph nodes may also indicate oral cancer. “There may be changes in the sensitivity of the taste buds or an area of the mucous membrane, the shape of the tongue, the palate, the buccal mucosa, the floor of the mouth, or discomfort when wearing dentures,” Denis said.
Oral mucosal cancer affects the mucosa of the cheeks, palate, gums, floor of the mouth, and tongue. It is characterized by rapid development, growth and a tendency to early metastasis. The period from the appearance of the first symptoms to metastases may take up to 6-12 months. Cancer of the tongue mucosa progresses especially quickly.
“Qualified dentists, otolaryngologists, therapists and pediatricians can detect signs of oral cancer during routine examinations of the skin, oral mucosa, palpation of the lesion and lymph nodes. If the doctor detects alarming changes, he or she will refer you to an oncologist; they mostly specialize in head and neck tumors,” the doctor explained.
The five-year survival rate for oral cancer is 90-100% in the first stage, 60-80% in the second stage, and approximately 55% in the third stage. In the fourth stage, the prognosis is extremely unfavorable. Those diagnosed with the disease at the initial stage have a chance of living for more than five years. Therefore, it is important to undergo regular medical examinations and consult a doctor if you have complaints.
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Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.