Are Smokers the Only People to Get Oral Cancer?
Posted on 11/9/2020 by Robert Leale |
 Oral cancer is prevalent among smokers who never realize that they have it until it's too late. They will first think that they have a cold, hoarseness, and maybe a bite on their tongue, taking time to heal. However, you can also find such symptoms with non-smokers because one can also get oral cancer by drinking alcohol or those infected with HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), among other causes. Smokers are just at a higher risk of getting oral cancer.
How Is Smoking Linked With Oral Cancer
Smoking does not only cause bad breath; smokers are at risk of developing oral cancer too. The different oral cancer types include mouth, tongue, throat, cheek, pharynx, sinus, salivary glands, and lip cancer. Chemicals in tobacco smoke can initiate, promote, or cause generic changes in cells along the mouth cavity responsible for developing oral cancer. Smokers are at a higher risk because they expose their mouths to the carcinogenic chemical when they inhale the smoke.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
It is challenging for smokers to know if they have oral cancer. Oral cancer can only be treated in its early stages, and that is why any smoker should lookout for the following symptoms. The first one is a toothache and bad breath, after which you may start noticing lumps in your mouth, which will make it difficult to chew, swallow, and even for jaw movement. Lastly, you will note something stuck in your throat, your cheeks will start thickening, your mouth becomes numb, and a sudden voice change.
Oral Cancer Prevention
Oral cancer is a deadly disease, and prevention should be a top priority, especially for smokers. The best way to deal with this is to schedule regular visits with our professionals. Contact our offices for a thorough examination to ensure that your gums, teeth, and mouth cavity are healthy.
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