How To Detect Tongue Cancer Symptoms

While discussing #cancer, most people will consider tongue cancer as an afterthought. People generally talk about cancer in the lungs, skin, colon, and other internal organs. But the fact of the matter is that tongue cancer, along with other types of oral cancers, is just as life-threatening as other types. You will, therefore, need to check for the #symptoms of #tongue cancer to make sure that you are not infected.

 

What is tongue cancer?

The tongue consists of two parts. The front two-thirds part of the tongue is known as the oral tongue, whereas the remaining part, which is at the backside, is known as the tongue base. According to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), tongue cancer usually forms on the oral tongue. This cancer results in the formation of thin, flat cells known as squamous cells. These cells cover the surface of the tongue. Cancer that forms on the base of the tongue is known as #oropharyngeal cancer.

 

Symptoms of tongue cancer

You may want to consult your dentist first if you think that you have tongue cancer. A thorough oral examination will make things clearer in this regard. You may want to look for the following symptoms to check for the presence of tongue cancer.

 

•A sore #throat that looks chronic

•Pain while chewing and swallowing

•Persistent pain in the jaw or tongue

•The inner lining of the mouth appearing unusually red or white, especially the tongue

•Numbness that doesn’t go away

•Trouble moving your jaw

 

Tongue cancer detection

You will need to call your dentist right away if you notice one or two symptoms of tongue cancer. The dentist will perform an oral examination. This check will include an examination of the tongue, throat, cheeks, and roof and floor of the mouth. He will also check lymph nodes in the neck. Upon finding any unusual growth in your oral cavity, the doctor or dentist will perform a tissue biopsy.

The detection of cancer is usually performed by a doctor. For instance, he or she may perform an endoscopy to have a closer look at your throat and lungs. A CT scan will help in the identification of any tumors in the infected area. An MRI test may help in determining if cancer has undergone metastasis. If the doctor is unable to determine the reason behind symptoms, he or she may refer you to an ENT specialist.

 

Treatment methods

The most significant requirement for treating this cancer is to find it early. There are several ways to treat tongue cancer. Using any particular method will depend on the size of the infection and whether or not it has spread to the other areas around the tongue. If cancer has spread to lymph nodes, you are going to get radiation therapy, which aims at destroying cancer cells. Chemotherapy is another treatment option. You can discuss all these options with your doctor.

Cancer of any kind is life-threatening, so finding it early is the key to a successful treatment. The best way is to practice preventative dental and overall healthcare to make sure that you are not affected by any life-threatening condition.

 

 

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