Question 1

hello, i have been trying to find out whether oral cancer can spread to the lymph nodes without any signs, or if there is always a sore present first?

Accepted Answer

Yes it can: Can present with a palpable lymph node and on further evaluation, a mass is found in the mouth.  However, what is more common is presenting with a mass in the mouth.

Question 2

what are some signs of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

White patch: A red or white or red patch on the lips, inside cheeks, gums or tongue that does not go away could be an early sign of oral cancer. A non-healing ulcer is another sign.  Don't wait for something to be painful. If you notice anything unusual (like the white patch in the picture), see your dentist or your doctor!

Question 3

what are the early signs of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Subtle: A white, red, ulcerated, or thickened area, usually painless, of more than 2 weeks duration. Bring this to your physician's attention since these are easy to overlook on routine physical exam.

Question 4

what are signs of oral cancer of the throat/tongue or a throat infection?

Accepted Answer

See an Oral Surgeon: With this type of question, it is better to see an oral surgeon for a complete head and neck evaluation.  I doubt anything that we answer can properly diagnose any symptoms or observations on your part, allay any fears or concerns you may have, or advise you adequately.  However, seeing an oral surgeon should be able to do all of that for you.

Question 5

are sores a sign of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes: Sores that do not heal on their own within two weeks should be examined by your dentist or physician to determine what they are.

Question 6

what is a sign or symptom of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Varies: It varies, but some common signs/symptoms of oral cancer are sores that don't heal, swelling, unexplainable changes in the way you bite, numbness, tingling, or teeth that seem to be displaced.  If you're concerned that something isn't right, see your dentist right away.

Question 7

i'm scared i may have oral cancer. what are the signs?

Accepted Answer

No sure-fire signs: Oral cancer takes many different forms and identifying it is not always easy and requires professional examination.  Many forms of oral cancer are visually indistinguishable from other less dangerous lesions and may require biopsy to identify.  Have an examination by your dentist and share your concerns.

Question 8

what should my first steps be if diagnosed with oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Get treatment.: Local disease is treated by surgery and radiation. Surgery is more common. Chemotherapy, like Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil used before or during radiation is just as good as surgery and radiation in locally advanced disease. Recurrent or metastatic disease is treated palliatively with Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil or paclitaxil. Patients with localized disease can have 75% 5 year survival.

Question 9

can sensitive gums be a sign of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Check-ups: Sore gums can be a sign from gingivitis to trauma from food to other pathology's that need more investigation.  It's important that you go to your doctor for regular check-ups and let them know when you have sensitive gums to diagnose properly.

Question 10

is discoloration of your mouth a sign of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Yes: A red or white or red patch on the lips, inside cheeks, gums or tongue that does not go away could be an early sign of oral cancer.

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Doctor answers about:

First signs of oral cancer

A member asked:

Hello, i have been trying to find out whether oral cancer can spread to the lymph nodes without any signs, or if there is always a sore present first?

A member asked:

What are some signs of oral cancer?

A member asked:

What are the early signs of oral cancer?

A member asked:

What are signs of oral cancer of the throat/tongue or a throat infection?

A member asked:

Are sores a sign of oral cancer?

A member asked:

What is a sign or symptom of oral cancer?

A member asked:

I'm scared i may have oral cancer. what are the signs?

A member asked:

What should my first steps be if diagnosed with oral cancer?

A member asked:

Can sensitive gums be a sign of oral cancer?

A member asked:

Is discoloration of your mouth a sign of oral cancer?

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