In recent times, oral cancer, known as mouth cancer, has become one of the most common diseases affecting people around the world. Alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, or chewing tobacco are the primary causes of oral cancer. If the case of cancer isn’t diagnosed and treated in time, then the cancer cells may reach the neck and head. So, one must immediately visit the best oncologist at the best cancer hospital in India to get the check-up done before it is too late.
In this blog, we will unearth some of oral cancer’s causes, symptoms, and treatments and learn about them in detail.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral or mouth cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of the mouth, gums, and roof of the mouth. If not diagnosed on time, it can affect the neck and head of the patient. Thus, on-time diagnosis enhances the chances of oral cancer reversal.
Common Causes of Oral Cancer:
Alcohol Consumption:
One of the leading causes of oral cancer is the excessive consumption of alcohol.
Tobacco Use:
Tobacco consumption is the primary reason for the development of oral cancer. It can be in any form, like cigars, cigarettes, snuff, and chewing tobacco. Tobacco contains harmful elements that lead to cellular mutation in the oral cavity.
Poor Oral Hygiene:
It is a contributing factor to the development of mouth cancer. Thus, regular dental check-ups are crucial for its prevention.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV):
HPV is a dangerous virus, and its HPV 16 strain is associated with mouth cancer. HPV can be transmitted via oral sex and is a matter of rising concern in the younger population.
Sun Exposure:
Long-term exposure of the lips to the sun may cause cancer. Prevent this cause by applying lip balm with sunscreen.
Nutritional Factors:
A diet without fruits and vegetables leads to increased chances of oral cancer. A supplement of antioxidants in the diet reduces the risk of initiation of cancer.
Family History:
There is also the genetic predisposition that contributes to the likelihood of oral cancer arising in a person.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer:
Early diagnosis of oral cancer is necessary for effective treatment. Some of the symptoms include:
· Chronic ulcers,
· Lumps in the mouth without any apparent reason,
· White or red patches on the oral mucosa,
· Difficulty in swallowing,
· Change in speech and voice,
· Numbness in the mouth,
· Swollen lymph nodes.
Treatment of Oral Cancer
Surgery: It is the most common and first line of treatment for oral cancer. Surgery is performed to remove the tumour with some surrounding normal tissue so that the margins are clear. If you are suffering from oral cancer, then choose the best cancer hospital in Haldwani for your surgery for early detection and treatment of oral cancer.
Radiation Therapy: It is commonly used post-surgery to remove the remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy can also be used as the primary treatment for patients having tumours in difficult locations. IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) allows for accurate tumour targeting while protecting healthy tissues.
Chemotherapy: Advanced tumours may be prescribed chemotherapy together with surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is the administration of drugs that can kill the cancerous cells or decelerate the rate of growth of those cells. Target therapies and immunotherapies are used in some more advanced cases of cancer.
Rehabilitation: After such rehabilitation, the patients require healing services including speech therapy and nutrition support to help them regain their strength
Medication Therapy: Various kinds of medications are used post-surgery for oral cancer. The best hospitals for cancer treatment in Haldwani provide precise medication therapy to help in recovery.
Follow-up Care: Patients are required to make scheduled visits to a healthcare provider for follow-up care: monitoring the signs of recurrence and managing any long-term effects of treatments.
Preventive Measures
Oral cancer can be prevented and paying a bit of attention to yourself can help it. Listed below are some of the preventive measures you can follow:
· If you are someone who smokes cigarettes, chew tobacco, or smokes cigars, try cutting them back or stopping. Learn various smoking cessation programs from your doctor.
· Try to drink alcohol in moderation.
· Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Always apply UV-AB-blocking sunscreen or your face and lips before stepping out of the house.
· Get vaccinated for HPV.
· Eat a well-balanced diet enriched with fruits and vegetables.
· Have regular check-ups.
The Bottom Line
Oral cancer is a serious disease which can be prevented using a bit of precaution and paying attention to the lifestyle. Early detection and treatment are essential to fighting oral cancer and a better life experience. If you experience any symptoms of mouth cancer, do not hesitate to seek medical attention from the best cancer hospital in Haldwani and get your tests done.
Source url – https://telegra.ph/Oral-Cancer-Causes-Symptoms–Treatment-12-18