Oral cancer, which also involves pharyngeal cancer, will affect more than 35,000 Americans this year, says the Oral Cancer Foundation. It will kill more than 8.000 Americans this year. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been shown to increase the incidence of oral cancer in those who are young non-smokers. The signs and symptoms of oral cancer caused by HPV are often not very noticeable, if present at all, during the early stages. However, certain signs can be seen by a doctor or dentist upon examination.
Sensation Symptoms
These symptoms include pain, numbness and the sensation that there is something lodged in your throat. The pain occurs in one ear but does not cause hearing loss, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. The numbness will be felt in the tongue or in areas throughout the mouth.
Difficulty Symptoms
These symptoms of oral cancer involve the tongue, jaw, swallowing and chewing. Difficulty moving the tongue or jaw can occur, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Swallowing and chewing can also be difficult.
Physical Symptoms
These symptoms include those that can be seen. The jaw can become swollen, resulting in dentures being uncomfortable to wear or maybe not fitting properly, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Red or white patches can occur in the mouth. Thick patches or lumps can occur on the lips, mouth or throat that are irritated and sore.
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