Early symptoms of oral cancer

Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
Updated on September 06, 2024
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Oral cancer poses a significant threat to human health, and its early symptoms are not obvious. Many cases are mistakenly thought to be chronic non-healing oral ulcers, and in fact, the best treatment opportunity has already been missed once it is discovered. Early manifestations include the appearance of lumps and nodules in the mouth. The lumps appear as white, smooth patches, and red patches can emerge in the mouth, along with ulcers. The mouth may also repeatedly bleed. If there are unexplained, long-lasting ulcers that do not heal, and the individual is over 40 years old with the presence of cauliflower-like growths, then it is crucial to immediately seek hospital treatment. Early smear tests and pathological examinations should be conducted for prompt diagnosis and treatment to achieve good outcomes.

Other Voices

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
58sec home-news-image

Can patients with oral cancer eat seafood?

Patients with oral cancer can eat seafood, but they should be mindful of the amount consumed. It is advisable to consume more of the seafood that contains high-quality animal protein, such as shrimp and fish, while the intake of smaller seafood like clams and scallops should be limited. This is because fish and shrimp contain high levels of protein, which can enhance the patient's immune system, thereby benefiting the recovery from oral cancer. However, small seafood contains higher levels of cholesterol, and excessive consumption can lead to increased levels of uric acid. Patients with oral cancer may need to undergo anti-cancer treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, which can also raise uric acid levels, thus increasing the burden on the kidneys. Therefore, it’s important to limit the intake of small seafood during these anti-cancer treatments to avoid exacerbating the kidney's load.

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Written by Fang Xiao
Dentistry
1min 6sec home-news-image

How to determine if it is oral cancer?

To determine if it is oral cancer, one can visit the dentistry department of a formal hospital for an oral examination and a local pathological biopsy. If cancer cells are found, it can be diagnosed as oral cancer. Additionally, CT scans and MRI can be performed to determine the location and size of the lesion. The onset of oral cancer generally starts with oral ulcers. If an oral ulcer persists and does not heal for more than two weeks, and the affected area shows cauliflower-like protrusions, hardening at the base, palpable lymph nodes, pain or exacerbation, and it affects eating and speech causing some obstacles or changes, early surgical treatment should be sought after the detection of oral cancer. Immediate radical surgery should be undertaken. If surgery is not possible, treatment through radiation or chemotherapy to reduce the tumor size before proceeding with surgical excision is recommended.

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Written by Liu Ping
Oncology
57sec home-news-image

Can oral cancer ulceration with pus infect others?

Oral cancer ulceration and pus discharge indicate that the tumor cells and cancer cells are locally invasive and infiltrative, which is quite severe. Since the mouth communicates and comes into contact with the external environment, bacterial infection is inevitable. Thus, ulceration often coincides with bacterial infection, leading to inflammation and pus discharge, which can infect others. In terms of infection, bacteria can definitely be transmitted through direct contact and bodily fluid contact. However, it is generally believed that tumor cells are not transmitted to others via direct contact or bodily fluids, considering that a normal person has a functioning immune system capable of recognizing and destroying a small number of tumor cells. Additionally, the likelihood of tumor cells from one person being transmitted to another through bodily fluids is considered very low.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Does frequent oral ulcers easily lead to oral cancer?

Patients who frequently suffer from oral ulcers generally do not easily get them. Patients should not worry too much. Pay attention to oral hygiene in daily life. If the occurrence of oral ulcers is occasional, and not frequently appearing singly, it is recommended that patients can undergo localized treatment for oral ulcers. They can use oral ulcer patches, which are applied to the ulcerated area in the mouth and can help heal the ulcers. Additionally, it is suggested that patients should definitely pay attention to oral hygiene. They can appropriately use oral sprays, and it is important to rinse the mouth promptly after meals. Avoid eating spicy, irritating foods, and overly hot foods. Relax and if oral ulcers repeatedly occur severely, it is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly.

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Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
49sec home-news-image

Early symptoms of oral cancer

Oral cancer poses a significant threat to human health, and its early symptoms are not obvious. Many cases are mistakenly thought to be chronic non-healing oral ulcers, and in fact, the best treatment opportunity has already been missed once it is discovered. Early manifestations include the appearance of lumps and nodules in the mouth. The lumps appear as white, smooth patches, and red patches can emerge in the mouth, along with ulcers. The mouth may also repeatedly bleed. If there are unexplained, long-lasting ulcers that do not heal, and the individual is over 40 years old with the presence of cauliflower-like growths, then it is crucial to immediately seek hospital treatment. Early smear tests and pathological examinations should be conducted for prompt diagnosis and treatment to achieve good outcomes.