Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a disease in which the cells that form the tissue of the mouth, lips, neck or throat begin to reproduce more rapidly than they should so there are too many cells in one area. This sudden increase in the number of cells causes a number of problems both inside and outside of the mouth.

Bleeding

• Bleeding may be a sign of oral cancer if the bleeding occurs in the mouth without any obvious cause (such as a bite, a burn or excessive brushing).

Discoloration

• An individual with oral cancer may develop red or white discolorations on the inside of the cheeks, gums, lips, tongue, the floor of the mouth or the roof of the mouth.

Pain

• Oral cancer may cause an individual to experience severe pain in her ears, face, mouth, neck or throat. This pain will typically be more severe when the individual attempts to swallow.

Sores

• An individual with oral cancer may develop sores on his face, lips, mouth, neck or tongue. These sores will typically last longer than two weeks and bleed when pressure is applied.

Swelling

• Oral cancer may cause an individual's lips, neck or mouth to swell, which may cause lumps to form in certain areas.