April is the month of Oral Cancer Awareness, and while it is fast approaching, we are all reminded about our oral health and the need to prioritize it. Nobody loves the word cancer, the disease that has negatively impacted many lives, which is why you must be on the lookout for early detection of oral cancer and take proper preventive measures.
Oral cancer is a disease that affects the lips, mouth, throat, and tongue, and its statistics are overwhelming. This is because some people overlook the signs. Like other diseases, early detection is essential, enabling timely medical intervention.
This article will help you understand and identify early signs of oral cancer, risk factors, and prevention strategies, which can help you take control of your oral health.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is malignant and uncontrolled cellular growth in the lips, mouth, cheeks, roof of the mouth, sinuses, throat, and tongue. It usually appears as a small and harmless red or white spot or a painful mouth sore. As the cancer spreads, it emerges into a thick, crusty lump or rough spot in the mouth.
The good news is that you can detect symptoms early to improve treatment outcomes through a health examination, which focuses on oral cancer screenings, during your routine dental cleaning appointments, which are typically scheduled every six months. Your dentist can identify potential issues and help you overcome oral cancer through a successful and effective treatment plan.
What Are the Early Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can be sneaky, as it is often masqueraded as a harmless condition. You might have a prolonged case without knowing, which could escalate into severe symptoms, including difficulty speaking, swallowing, chewing, or pain and numbness in the mouth, lips, and throat.
Overlooking early symptoms comes with dire consequences, and it allows the disease to spread slowly to other parts of the body. If oral cancer advances, treatment does not only become increasingly challenging, but it might reduce the chances of survival.
So, here are early signs of oral cancer that you should be aware of to reduce the risk of further spread:
1. Non Healing Mouth Sores
It is common for mouth sores or ulcers to heal on their own within a short time. But, if yours prolongs to three weeks or more, it is a possible sign of oral cancer. To get a proper diagnosis, it is essential to seek medical attention.
2. Unusual Lumps or Thickening in Various Areas of the Mouth
Another cause for concern is lumps in your oral cavity. Some lumps are harmless, but they can be an early sign of something as serious as oral cancer. You can ask your dentist to help inspect unusual lumps or thickening in your mouth. If detected and diagnosed early, they can result in more effective treatment.
3. Aware of Unusual Textures
If you feel unusual roughness or crusts on your gum, lips, or inside your mouth, this can also be a warning sign of oral cancer. The abnormal textures may come with persisting pain, bleeding, or discomfort, but your healthcare provider or dentist can thoroughly examine, diagnose, and offer effective treatment.
4. Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing
Difficulty swallowing or chewing is usually associated with many health problems, but if it is persistent and causes discomfort, it can be a sign of oral cancer. Ignoring these symptoms can risk oral health or spread to other body parts.
5. Unexplained Ear Pain
Another surprising symptom of oral cancer is excruciating ear pain. You might not have any visible signs in your throat or mouth but still feel an unexplained pain in your ear, leading to tenderness or discomfort. While this symptom poses as an early sign of oral cancer, it may cause an ear infection if left untreated. Consulting a healthcare provider or a dentist can help identify the underlying cause of ear pain before scheduling a treatment plan.
What Are the Preventive Strategies for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can happen to anyone, but it can be prevented if you adopt healthy lifestyle habits, eat healthily, conduct regular self-examination, visit your dentist for oral inspections, and maintain optimal oral health. Here are preventive measures to help you reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.
Healthy Habits
- Avoid Nicotine and Tobacco Products: Lifestyle choices like smoking less tobacco or quitting altogether can help prevent the risk of oral cancer.
- Drink Responsibly: Drinking alcohol irresponsibly comes with many risk factors, including liver issues, oral cancer, heart diseases, and mental health problems. Drinking less alcohol or avoiding it can help reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic illnesses.
- Shield Your Lips from the Sun: Wearing lip balms with SPF can prevent lip cancer. They safeguard your lips from the damage of UV rays.
Eat a Healthy Diet to Improve Your Oral Health
Rich and nutritious foods can help you maintain oral health and prevent cancer. Varieties of food you can consume daily include:
- Vegetables and Fruits: To protect against oral cancer, your daily diet should consist of minerals, antioxidants, and some vitamins, all obtained from fruits and vegetables.
- Foods Rich in Vitamins A, C, and E: Including foods that contain vitamins A, C, and E in your daily diet can repair your cells and support your immune functions, reducing the risk of oral cancer.
- Whole Grains and Lean Proteins: Consuming lean proteins and whole grains also provides the nutrients to safeguard against oral cancer.
Practice Regular Self-Examinations
Individuals can perform regular self-exams to monitor their oral health:
- Visually Inspect Your Lip, Throat, and Mouth: Carefully look for lumps, sores, swellings, or uncommon irregularities. Gently run your fingers over each surface during the inspection.
- Watch Out for Warning Signs of Oral Cancer: Be aware of unusual symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, chewing, speaking, or persisting pain.
Conclusion
Promoting oral cancer awareness empowers you to take charge of your health and creates a healthier future. So, start by being aware of the early signs and take preventive actions to minimize the risk. Generally, you can prevent oral cancer by eating healthy, changing your lifestyle, and visiting your dentist.
