Tongue Cancer Signs

Tongue cancer is usually caused by squamous cell carcinoma. A patient's recovery depends on how quickly the cancer is discovered and treatment is started. Noticing the potential signs of tongue cancer when they develop and getting a doctor's opinion early can increase your treatment options and improve your prognosis.

The Facts

• Doctors refer to cancer that affects the mouth and the oropharynx, or the part of the throat just behind the mouth, as tongue cancer. Cancer can occur on any part of your tongue, from the front tip to the base of it near the beginning of your throat. Smoking can increase your risk of tongue cancer, as can chewing tobacco. Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can also increase your risk of developing it. Signs that you have tongue cancer can be found in different parts of the mouth.

Lips

• Tongue cancer symptoms can show up on your lips. If you develop a sore on your lip that never heals, it could be sign that you have developed tongue cancer. Your lips can also swell or get thicker. You might also find a lump on your lip that does not fade. Bleeding, pain and numbness of the lips that are not caused by any injury or trauma could also be warning signs of tongue cancer.

Tongue

• Your tongue can also display symptoms that will warn you that cancer might have developed. You might notice a white or a red patch on it that you cannot brush away and that does not fade with time. The patch could be sore and the soreness will not fade. Unexplained bleeding from your tongue is a potential symptom. Another sign of cancer is trouble moving your tongue. This can interfere with your ability to speak clearly. It can also impede your ability to eat because chewing and swallowing can become difficult.

Gums and Teeth

• Tongue cancer can also affect your teeth and gums. Warning signs include red or white patches that develop on your gums and do not heal or disappear. Your gums could bleed. They could also develop lumps or grow thicker than normal. If you have not experienced any injury to your mouth but your teeth are getting loose or your dentures no longer fit correctly, it could be a symptom of tongue cancer.

Throat and Jaw

• Trouble with your throat and jaw can indicate possible cancer. A sore throat that doesn't go away, difficulty chewing, and the feeling that something is stuck in your throat are potential symptoms. You might also experience pain when you swallow. If your jaw swells with no other illness or injury taking place, that could also be a symptom of tongue cancer.