An oncologist has warned that a cancer symptom could be mistaken for stress and tiredness. According to the expert, it can be “easily overlooked”.
Ulcers are a common complaint and often crop up when people are feeling under the weather or a bit run down. They can also be caused by ill-fitting braces or dentures, an injury to the mouth, or cuts and irritation from sharp, hard, hot or spicy foods. While most are harmless and will go away on their own within a week or two, any lasting more than three weeks should be investigated.
Radiation oncologist Doctor Jiri Kubes, from the Proton Therapy Centre in Prague, who says long-lasting ulcers can be a sign of mouth cancer. Dr Kubes said: “Mouth ulcers are really common and rarely a sign of anything serious. But because they are so common they can easily be overlooked.
View 3 Images“Pay attention to any changes anywhere in your mouth”, he said(Image: Getty)
“Ulcers are usually either on the inside of the cheek or lips, or on the tongue. Keep a close eye on any that are not healing. Persistent ulcers which haven’t cleared up within three weeks should always be checked out by either a GP or a dentist. It’s also worth keeping an eye on any white or red patches that appear in the mouth.
“If anything looks unusual or causes you concern then speak with your doctor. It might not be anything serious, but it’s always worth making sure.”
Other symptoms of mouth cancer include unusual persistent lumps and bumps in the mouth and neck that won’t go away, unexplained pain in your mouth and difficulty swallowing. Less commonly, symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, a hoarse voice or persistent bad breath.
Dr Kubes continued: “Ideally you want the inside of your mouth to look pink and healthy.
“Pay attention to any changes anywhere in your mouth including all around your tongue, and any lumps or discolouration on the inside of both your top and bottom lip. There may be lots of reasons for changes but don’t ignore anything that’s not normal and won’t go away – it’s always better to make sure.”
Treatment for mouth cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
View 3 ImagesYou should see your doctor if this symptom lasts three weeks or more(Image: Getty)
The NHS also lists mouth ulcers as a potential sign of mouth cancer – if they persist for three weeks or more. It says: “Symptoms of mouth cancer can affect any part of your mouth, including the gums, tongue, inside the cheeks, or lips.”
Other symptoms, according to the health body can include:
- A red or white patch inside your mouth
- A lump inside your mouth or on your lip
- Pain inside your mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty speaking or a hoarse (croaky) voice
- A lump in your neck or throat
- Losing weight without trying
It adds: “These symptoms are very common and can be caused by other conditions. Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have mouth cancer, but it’s important to get checked by a GP or dentist.
“If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it’s easier to treat.”