Oral Cancer: Causes, Treatment & Care

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a serious condition affecting various parts of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, palate, salivary glands, and tonsils. Despite its severity, modern medicine makes it possible to treat and often cure. Treatment depends on the patient’s overall health, cancer type, size, location, and stage.

Common Treatment Methods

• Surgery: Removes cancerous tissue along with some surrounding healthy tissue. Reconstructive surgery may follow to restore function and appearance.
• Radiotherapy: Uses high-energy X-rays or radiation to destroy cancer cells. It can be applied before, after, or instead of surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Involves strong drugs administered orally or via injection to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific cancer cell components, minimizing damage to healthy cells.
• Immunotherapy: Strengthens the patient’s immune system to fight cancer cells.

Post-Treatment Care

• Oral hygiene: Keep the mouth clean, perform gentle gargling, and consult a doctor if irritation occurs.
• Nutrition: Treatment may make eating difficult; follow a nutritionist’s advice for balanced meals.
• Regular checkups: Frequent follow-ups with the doctor are essential.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you notice:

• Persistent sores, blisters, white or red patches in the mouth
• Pain, swelling, or changes in voice

Conclusion

Oral cancer is serious but treatable with modern medical care. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial. If any oral abnormalities appear, consult a specialist immediately.