It outlines some of the symptoms of tongue cancer and how to spot them. Early diagnosis is the key to better outcomes, including fewer side effects and a better chance of survival. It is also possible to cure this disease if caught early. If you’re concerned that you may be at risk, schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider immediately.
The symptoms of tongue cancer include sores in the tongue, altered taste, difficulty swallowing or talking, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. The causes of these cell changes are unknown, but alcohol and tobacco use are the leading risk factors for developing this cancer. The human papilloma virus, or HPV, is believed to play a role in genetic changes. The treatment of tongue cancer will depend on whether your condition is curable or not.
Treatment for tongue cancer depends on the extent of the cancer. Small cancers may require a simple laser surgery or local anaesthetic. Larger cancers may require a more invasive operation requiring more time in the hospital. If the cancer is large and has spread throughout the mouth, surgeons may remove some of the tongue or the lymph glands. In addition to the removal of the tongue, speech therapy may be part of the treatment plan.
Symptoms of tongue cancer can be easily missed during routine physical exams and dental checkups. However, it is important to note that most tongue cancers are found during routine dental exams. Moreover, tobacco use is the leading cause of tongue cancer. Men tend to consume more tobacco than women and are therefore more likely to be diagnosed with this cancer. Further, this cancer is more common in men than women, making early detection of symptoms very important for a good outcome.
Tongue cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer, although African-American men are more likely to develop it. Early symptoms of this disease include a grayish-pink or red lump on the side of the tongue that touches the teeth. Oftentimes, these tumors bleed easily when touched or bitten. Because the symptoms are few in the early stages, it can be difficult to diagnose. In later stages, the cancer may cause sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty moving the jaw.
A medical professional will perform a thorough medical exam and ask you specific questions about the symptoms of your condition. During the visit, the doctor will perform an examination of your tongue and neck using a long-handled mirror. Other diagnostic tests may include X-rays of your mouth and throat, CT scans, and PET scans, which use radioactive materials to diagnose cancer. If a tumor is detected early, a surgeon will remove the cancer. Sometimes, it may be necessary to remove lymph nodes in your neck as well.
Fortunately, tongue cancer can be detected early. If detected early, it may even be curable. Treatment can be effective in slowing the growth of the tumor or ease the symptoms for a while. The risk of getting tongue cancer is much higher among heavy drinkers and smokers. Tobacco and alcohol use are the main causes of this disease, but HPV is also a risk factor. If you’ve contracted this virus through sexual intercourse, you’re more likely to develop the disease.
