Oral cancer is a common yet often overlooked disease because its early symptoms can resemble minor dental or throat issues. However, if you experience any of the following signs, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

1. Tongue Pain and Difficulty Chewing

Persistent tongue pain, weakened teeth, or difficulty chewing may be early warning signs of oral cancer. These symptoms are often mistaken for ordinary mouth ulcers or dental problems and ignored until it’s too late.

2. Chronic Sore Throat

A sore throat that doesn’t go away, even after using remedies like honey, lemon lozenges, or saltwater rinses, may indicate something more serious. If the pain persists, especially with hoarseness or swollen glands, consult a doctor immediately to rule out oral cancer.

3. Unexplained Bleeding in the Mouth

Bleeding in the mouth without an obvious cause—such as injury or brushing—can be a red flag. If you notice bleeding after eating, brushing, or even spontaneously, and especially if it’s recurrent, don’t ignore it.

4. Persistent Ulcers

Ulcers in the mouth that don’t heal within a month, especially in a fixed location, may be a sign of cancer. These ulcers often have irregular, raised, or hardened edges, may smell foul, bleed easily, and don’t respond to usual treatments. A biopsy is usually recommended to determine the cause.

5. Wart-like or Bumpy Lesions

Small cauliflower-like growths or raised bumps in the mouth, often accompanied by ulcers or bleeding, can also be symptoms of oral cancer. These growths don’t heal on their own and may grow larger or spread.

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Warning: Early Metastasis Risk

Oral cancers, particularly those affecting the tongue or floor of the mouth, tend to spread early to nearby lymph nodes in the neck, jawline, or under the chin. Enlarged lymph nodes can compress airways, invade blood vessels, cause breathing difficulties, intense headaches, or even lead to massive bleeding in the jaw and facial area—potentially fatal if not treated promptly.

Advice: Never ignore persistent changes in your mouth. If you notice an ulcer that lasts more than two weeks, unexplained bleeding, pain, or swollen neck glands, consult an oral health or ENT specialist for proper evaluation.