Tongue cancer is an oral cancer, and is classified with cancers that appear on the cheek, lips, throat, sinuses, palates and floor of the mouth. According to Cedar Sinai Medical Center, tongue cancer develops from squamous cells that line the various regions of the mouth. Excessive alcohol consumption, chewing tobacco and smoking increases the risk of developing tongue cancer. Patient suffering from tongue cancer may develop a number of side effects affecting the oral cavity.
Lumps or Sores
Side effects of tongue cancer can cause lumps which may ulcerate and appear red to pink in color. Tongue cancer sores are usually similar to canker sores or ulcers in appearance, according to MayoClinic.com. In addition, white, red or other discoloration patches may appear on the tongue. Sores or lumps usually feel hard, unmovable and may bleed if touched or bitten. Although tongue cancer lumps or sores are typically painless, they do not heal properly. Once diagnosed, physicians will normally prescribe an individualized treatment plan to treat your condition.
Pain and Swallowing
Pain may accompany tongue cancer in the later stages of the disease. This pain often occurs with swallowing and occasionally with chewing, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Pain normally occurs when cancer cells grow into nerves on the tongue. MayoClinic.com reports that ear pain frequently appears as the cancer grows into the lingual, auriculotemporal or trigeminal nerves. Patients may experience other diseases, malnourishment and side effects if the cancer spreads.
Loose Teeth
Another possible side effect of tongue cancer is the development of loose teeth, notes the National Cancer Institute. As the disease progresses, the cancerous lesions grow into other mouth tissues such as the gums surrounding the teeth. As a result, cancer growth can damage the gums and prevent them from properly supporting the teeth. Tongue cancer cells can also induce inflammation, loosen teeth and contribute to cancer cell growth. Loosening of the teeth often leads to difficulty in chewing tough or crunchy foods. Patients with unexplained loose teeth should seek medical attention for further treatment.
