How to self-examine Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a subtype of head and neck cancer that can be prevented with early detection. Recognising the early signs and symptoms of this cancer is crucial, as it enhances the success rate of treatment options. Self-examination for oral cancer is a simple yet effective method that you can perform in the comfort of your home to identify potential signs at an early stage.

This article aims to empower you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to conduct self-examinations to identify & prevent oral cancer before it begins.

Causes of Oral Cancer in Brief

Oral cancer can develop due to various factors, including lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition. Some common causes include:

• Tobacco use (cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Poor oral hygiene
• Exposure to sunlight for lip cancer

It is essential to note that these risk factors do not guarantee the development of oral cancer. However, individuals with any of these habits or conditions should be more vigilant in self-examining their oral health.

Signs and Symptoms

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of oral cancer. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the common signs and symptoms associated with this type of cancer. Some of the primary symptoms include:

• Sores or ulcers that do not heal within two weeks
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• Lump in the neck, cheek or tongue

If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it is advisable to consult a dentist or doctor for further evaluation.

How to Perform a Self-Examination For Oral Cancer

1. Stand in front of a well-lit mirror, preferably in the bathroom.
2. Begin by checking the external areas of your face, lips, and mouth for any visible changes or growths.
3. Use your fingers to feel around your cheeks, lips, neck and under your jawline for any lumps or abnormalities.
4. Open your mouth wide to examine the inside of your cheeks, tongue, roof of the mouth, and back of the throat.
5. Use your fingers to feel for any abnormalities or lumps inside your mouth and on your tongue.
6. Examine your gums, teeth, and the roof of your mouth using a small handheld mirror.
7. Finally, tilt your head back and look at the back of your throat for any changes or growths.

What should you do if you suspect oral cancer?

1. Schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor: If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned earlier for more than two weeks, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with oncologist. They will be able to perform a thorough examination and determine the cause of your symptoms.
2. Get tested: Your doctor or dentist may conduct various tests to diagnose oral cancer, including a physical exam, imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, and biopsies.
3. Seek treatment: If you are diagnosed with oral cancer, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods.
4. Follow-up appointments: After completing treatment, it is essential to attend regular follow-up appointments for monitoring and early detection of any recurrence or new developments.
5. Adopt healthy lifestyle habits: To reduce your risk of developing oral cancer, it is crucial to adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a balanced diet.
6. Educate yourself: Knowing the symptoms, risk factors, and prevention methods can help you detect oral cancer early on and seek treatment promptly if needed.

Remember that early detection is key to successful treatment and recovery from oral cancer. Don’t ignore any symptoms or delay seeking medical attention. By taking the necessary steps, you can improve your chances of overcoming this disease and maintaining good oral health.

It’s also important to remember that oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. While certain risk factors such as tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption increase the likelihood of developing this disease, it is still possible for someone without these risk factors to be diagnosed with oral cancer.

Therefore, it’s crucial to educate yourself and take preventive measures against this disease, regardless of your personal risk factors. Always prioritize your oral health and never ignore any symptoms or delay seeking medical attention. Stay vigilant, stay healthy!

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