Cancer in your mouth is grouped together with the types of cancer of head and neck. The tumors that are reflected in this zone are usually of two types:
1.Carcinomas, found on the inner walls of the mouth.
2. Adenocarcinomas, which are located in the glandular cells.
As with the rest of the cancers that you can develop, it is of great importance to know what are its main symptoms and the measures to avoid it.
This is because, when a timely diagnosis is made, the chances of successful treatment without surgery are high.
Main symptoms of cancer in your mouth
Mouth cancer can be easily visualized because it can begin as a wound that does not close over the course of several weeks.
Although this is the most significant symptom, it is not the only one. You should also watch for the appearance of:
- White patches on the mouth
- Unexplained bleeding
- Difficulty chewing or moving the jaw
- Hoarseness or change of voice
- Loss of sensation or pain in any area of the mouth, face, or neck
- Lumps in the lips, gums or any other area of the oral cavity
- Unexplained earache
You will see that many of these symptoms may appear for other reasons. However, if you notice two or three at the same time you should see your doctor for a review.
Risk factors for mouth cancer
As with all other types of cancer, the mouth cancer develops more easily when presenting certain characteristics or conditions.
Although this disease may appear in people who do not meet these factors and ideally you watch your health, you should pay special attention if:
1.Smoke
The exact causes of cancer of the mouth are unknown, but it is known that smoking is the most important factor in developing this disease.
Cigarette smoke affects because it irritates the mucous membranes of the oral cavity and is related in more than 60% of cases of oral cancer.
On the other hand, chewing tobacco causes irritation because it has a direct contact with the tissues.
If you have a smoking habit, it would be good to try to quit gradually. There are several options that can be helpful and the effort will be worth it if you avoid this disease.
2.Drinking alcohol frequently
Excessive consumption of alcohol is another cause attributed to this type of cancer. Do you drink alcohol frequently? Do you smoke?
In this case you should watch your mouth to make sure that no symptoms appear, as you have great possibilities of developing this condition.
Ideally, you should quit the habit as soon as possible. We already know that some types of alcohol can offer health benefits, but you should never lose sight of moderation.
3.You have a family history
People with a family history of this type of cancer are also prone to this disease. If this is your case, try to get a medical checkup every year.
It is important that you notify your dentist of the background so that he or she is aware during the usual screenings.
In many cases, they can be great allies in early diagnosis, as they can review areas that are difficult for you.
In addition, it would be good if you ask your GP about whether a study or test of discard is necessary.
4.Contagion of sexually transmitted diseases
Most people believe that the only sexually transmitted disease that should be of major concern to them is HIV or AIDS.
While this disease is serious and should not be overlooked, other STDs can cause serious health problems.
One of these diseases is human papillomavirus (HPV). This one has a lot of types and not all are serious.
The problem is that those that are can cause the development of mouth cancer when it is transmitted orally.
It is also important that you visit the gynecologist regularly to take good control of your sexual health through the usual tests.
The most common thing is to suffice with a pap smear each year to rule out the problem.
Tips to prevent this type of cancer
- To prevent and combat mouth cancer in a timely manner, it is important that:
- You watch and pay attention to the appearance of any of the symptoms that we have mentioned or any other.
- When brushing your teeth, be aware of any bleeding or injury that does not heal within about ten to fifteen days.
- Whether you notice difficulty in jaw mobility.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
- Consume alcohol in moderation.
