Oral cancer refers to over-growth of cells and tissues anywhere in the mouth and throat. This kind of cancer belongs to the group, head and neck cancers. It is known to develop anywhere in the oral cavity. The cancer starts effecting squamous cells that form the outer cover for all parts of the mouth. Therefore, they are also known as squamous cell carcinomas. This cancer spreads in the lymphatic system through a watery fluid known as lymph. It also spreads in other related parts like throat, lungs and even other body parts. When this cancer reaches lungs, it should not be mistaken as lung cancer as it has originated from oral cancer cells only.
Oral cancer is absolutely not contagious. There is no risk of catching this disease from its patient. People, who are habitual of chewing tobacco and consuming alcohol on regular basis, are very likely to develop this type of cancer. The majority of oral cancer patients are found to be tobacco chewers. Tobacco when taken in the form of cigarettes causes equally bad results. People having family history of oral cancer or any other neck and head cancer also face the risk of having this cancer. In some rare cases, exposure to the sun causes lip cancer. This can be avoided with the application of a good sun-block cream or balm.
Symptoms of oral cancer can be white, red or combination of red and white patches in the parts of mouth, any sore that does not heal, bleeding inside the mouth, teeth getting loose from the root, pain in the mouth while swallowing and eating, pain in the ear and nearby areas of the mouth. If you feel all or any of the symptoms bothering you enough, don’t make late in consulting the doctor as timely diagnosis of the same can save you from getting into a big problem.
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