Look for mouth ulcers which have not healed in over two or three weeks. [2] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Look for mouth ulcers that recur in the same areas of the mouth over and over again. Look for mouth ulcers with irregular borders, that bleed at the slightest touch.
These color changes may be red, white, grey or dark in color. You may also notice velvety white and red patches inside your mouth.
You may also feel a non-stop pain/tenderness in a particular area of your mouth. If you experience any of these two symptoms with or without swelling/lumps, then you should visit your doctor immediately
One good way to tell if the alignment of your teeth has changed is to try wearing your dentures (if you use them). Difficulty in fitting the dentures inside your mouth is a good indication that your teeth have moved.
Press gently along the sides of your neck for any pain, tenderness or lumps. Visually examine the skin for any abnormal growths or moles. Pull out your lower lip using your thumb and index finger and check for any lumps or irregular growths. Do the same for the upper lip. Put your index finger inside your cheeks and your thumb outside and check for any pain, change in texture, swelling or lumps in the cheeks by gently rolling and squeezing the skin with your fingers.
Being unable to swallow foods or liquids or feeling pain when swallowing. Experiencing a loss of taste when eating. Feeling as if something is caught in your throat when swallowing. Difficulty moving the tongue and jaw due to stiffness.
Usually, your voice will become more hoarse. You may also feel pain in your throat while talking, eating or even at rest.
The glands will feel swollen and painful to the touch. This is due to the fact that mouth cancer affects the drainage of the lymph nodes. You may also experience pain in the ears, as the cancer causes pressure against the inside of the ears. This usually indicates that the cancer has spread and become more advanced.
In addition to difficulty eating, the illness may cause a loss of appetite, which can contribute to further weight loss.
You could also use a small, hand-held torch to illuminate the inside of your mouth.
As with all types of cancer, early detection is key in successful treatment. [17] X Trustworthy Source World Health Organization Health information and news provided by the World Health Organization Go to source
Avoid smoking or using tobacco products. Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Protect your lips from the sun using SPF. See you dentist for a check-up every six months.
