Cancers of the throat and mouth are included in the general grouping of head and neck cancers. These cancers can arise in the tongue, lining of the mouth, gums, roof of the mouth, tonsils, salivary glands, throat and voice box. The National Cancer Institute reports tobacco use and excessive alcohol intake are strongly associated with the development of mouth and throat cancers. Symptoms of mouth and throat cancers reflect the local effects of the tumors on the affected structures.
Persistent Mouth Sores
The American Cancer Society reports that persistent, nonhealing sores in the mouth are the most common symptom of mouth cancer. The sores may appear on the insides of the cheek, along the gums, on the tongue, or in other locations in the mouth. The lesions may be painless. In some cases, persistent red or white patches may appear as opposed to open sores.
Mass in the Mouth
A lump or mass anywhere in the mouth may be a symptom of mouth cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. In some cases, the area may present as a thickening of the tissue rather than a distinct lump. Lumps near the teeth or in the jaw may cause loosening of the teeth and difficulty chewing. The American Society of Clinical Oncology reports that more than 90 percent of mouth cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.
Mouth Pain or Numbness and Bleeding
The National Cancer Institute notes that unusual bleeding in the mouth and persistent mouth pain may be presenting symptoms of mouth cancer. Some oral cancers may cause numbness of the mouth or tongue.
Jaw Pain, Swelling and Movement Difficulties
The American Cancer Society reports that mouth cancers may cause jaw pain, which may be accompanied by localized swelling. Jaw movement may be affected causing difficulty chewing, talking or fully opening the mouth.
Sore Throat and Swallowing Difficulties
A persistent sore throat and pain with swallowing may be symptoms of throat cancer, reports the National Cancer Institute. There may be a sensation of something caught in the throat. A persistent cough may develop along with these symptoms.
Hoarseness
Cancer of the larynx--the part of the throat that includes the vocal cords--may cause hoarseness. The voice may sound scratchy or weak. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, nearly 12,300 Americans were newly diagnosed with laryngeal cancer in 2009.
Lumps in the Neck
Cancers of the mouth and throat may spread to the lymph nodes of the neck, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery. Cancer spread to the lymph nodes typically causes painless swelling of the affected nodes.
Face or Neck Pain and Weakness
The National Cancer Institute reports that pain in the chin, neck or face--especially the area in front of the ears--may be a symptom of salivary gland cancer. Tumors of the salivary glands may also cause weakness of the facial muscles if they impinge on a facial nerve.
References
- National Cancer Institute: Head and Neck Cancer, Questions and Answers
- American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery: Head and Neck Cancer
- American Cancer Society: How is Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Cancer Diagnosed?
- American Cancer Society: How is Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer Diagnosed?
- American Society of Clinical Oncology: Head and Neck Cancer
