Mouth Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Mouth cancer is a serious health issue affecting many people around the world. It’s a type of cancer that falls under the category of head and neck cancers. This article will cover the main symptoms, causes, and treatment options for mouth cancer. Knowing this information can help with early detection and treatment, which is crucial for better outcomes. Let’s start by understanding the basics.

What is Mouth Cancer?

Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is when abnormal cells grow in parts of the mouth, such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palates, sinuses, and throat. If it’s not caught and treated early, mouth cancer can be life-threatening.

Types of Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer can be categorized based on the type of cells where it begins. Here are the main types:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This is the most common type, making up over 90% of all oral cancers. It starts in the flat, thin cells lining the lips, mouth, tongue, and throat.

Verrucous Carcinoma: A rare type of squamous cell carcinoma that grows slowly and is usually not aggressive. It often looks like a wart and affects the gums and the inner cheek.

Minor Salivary Gland Carcinomas: These start in the salivary glands located throughout the mouth and throat. Subtypes include:

• Adenocarcinoma: Forms in mucus-secreting glands.
• Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma: Known for slow growth and spreading along nerves.
• Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: The most common type of salivary gland cancer, consisting of mucus-secreting and squamous cells.

Lymphoma: This type of cancer starts in the lymphoid tissues of the tonsils or the base of the tongue. It’s rare in the mouth but can happen.

Melanoma: A rare type of cancer that can develop in the mouth, usually starting in the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes.

Sarcomas: These cancers begin in the bone, cartilage, or muscle of the mouth. Examples include osteosarcoma (bone) and rhabdomyosarcoma (muscle).

Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

Signs of mouth cancer can include:

• Persistent sores: A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks.
• Unexplained bleeding: Bleeding in the mouth without any clear cause.
• Lumps or thickening: A lump, thickened area, or rough spot on the gums, lips, or inside the mouth.
• White or red patches: White or red patches that don’t go away.
• Pain or difficulty swallowing: Constant pain in the mouth, throat, or ear, or trouble swallowing.
• Numbness: Unexplained numbness in the face, mouth, or neck.
• Loose teeth: Teeth becoming loose or dentures that don’t fit properly anymore.
• Changes in voice: A chronic sore throat or voice changes, like hoarseness.
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying, along with other symptoms.

Risk Factors for Mouth Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing mouth cancer, such as:

• Tobacco use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco are the top risk factors, as tobacco contains harmful substances that can damage mouth cells.
• Alcohol consumption: Drinking heavily raises the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• HPV infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV16, are linked to cancers in the back of the mouth.
• Excessive sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer.
• Age: The risk rises with age, most commonly in people over 40.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop mouth cancer, possibly due to higher rates of tobacco and alcohol use.
• Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk.
• Family history: A family history of cancer can indicate a higher risk.
• Weakened immune system: A weakened immune system due to conditions or medications can raise the risk.
• Previous cancer: Those who’ve had cancer, especially in the head and neck area, are at higher risk.
• Poor oral hygiene: Chronic irritation from rough teeth or ill-fitting dentures may contribute to the risk.

Diagnosis of Mouth Cancer

Diagnosing mouth cancer typically involves several steps:

• Physical examination: The doctor will check the mouth, throat, and neck for lumps or other abnormalities.
• Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to look inside the mouth and throat.
• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area to check for cancer cells.
• Imaging tests: These may include X-rays, CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to see if the cancer has spread.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): A thin needle is used to remove cells or fluid from a lump.
• Oral brush biopsy: Cells are collected by brushing them from a suspicious area in the mouth.
• Blood tests: These help assess overall health and may detect abnormalities related to cancer.

Treatment for Mouth Cancer

Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. The main methods include:

Staging: Determining the extent of cancer spread, which is crucial for planning treatment. Stages range from 0 (very early) to IV (advanced).

Surgery: Often the first line of treatment, especially for early-stage cancer. Surgical options include removing the tumor, part or all of the tongue, jawbone, or lymph nodes, and reconstructive surgery to restore appearance and function.

Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells. It can be external or internal (brachytherapy), and advanced forms like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) can target the tumor more precisely.

Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells. It can be given before surgery to shrink the tumor, after surgery to eliminate remaining cells, or as palliative care to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.

Palliative Care: Focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, including pain management, nutritional support, speech therapy, and emotional support.

Preventing Mouth Cancer

You can reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer by taking these steps:

• Quit tobacco use: Smoking and other forms of tobacco are the main causes of mouth cancer. Seek support if needed to quit.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking increases the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• Protect your lips from the sun: Use lip balm with SPF, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups can catch early signs of mouth cancer.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and antioxidants.
• Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily to reduce the risk of infections that can lead to cancer.
• Get vaccinated: Consider the HPV vaccine to reduce the risk of related cancers.
• Avoid risky behaviors: Protect yourself from infections that can increase cancer risk, such as HPV.

Prognosis for Mouth Cancer

The outlook for mouth cancer depends on factors like the stage at diagnosis, type and location of cancer, and the patient’s overall health. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment. For example, early-stage mouth cancer has a five-year survival rate of around 70-90%, while advanced stages have lower rates.

Final Words

Mouth cancer is a serious condition that needs prompt treatment. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment, so regular check-ups and awareness of symptoms are vital. If you or someone you know has signs of mouth cancer or concerns about oral health, it’s important to consult a specialist. Max Hospitals has a team of experienced oncologists and state-of-the-art facilities ready to provide comprehensive care and support. Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice and take steps towards better health by booking a consultation at Max Hospitals today.