Dentist reveals the warning sign of cancer that many people dismiss as common winter complaint
Oral health is a crucial factor in determining the overall health of the body. Simple things like breath or gum health can often give insight into how healthy we are internally. In the same way, several oral health issues can highlight a greater underlying issue. Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon, shared that one particular oral health issue could be a massive cause for concern, per The Mirror. The doctor shared why it could be a warning sign of cancer and should not be dismissed. With special regard to the winter season, this is a common symptom and may require medical attention.
The symptom shared by the surgeon is mouth ulcers. These are a very common issue that many people face for several reasons. They refer to a form of inflammation or soreness forming on the lips, the roof of the mouth, the inner lining of the cheeks and other areas in the mouth, per Cleveland Clinic. Getting ulcers in the mouth could come from poor oral hygiene and poor digestion, among other major reasons. It could also be caused due to hormonal changes. However, the ulcers we are talking about often turn out to be an early sign of cancer. Bozic explained that regular ulcers that are not a reason for worry often heal within a week or two. However, sores that pester for a longer period require attention.
“If a sore lingers beyond that, it could indicate something more serious, such as oral cancer, an autoimmune disease, or a chronic infection,” the dentist explained. He added that winters can worsen the issue due to dry air and require careful observation. "Dehydration and a higher risk of infections during colder months can aggravate mouth ulcers. But any sore that persists shouldn't be dismissed as seasonal - it's crucial to have it checked,” he cautioned. Bozic further shared a few ways to identify an ulcer that could be connected with cancer. These include ulcers lasting over 3 weeks, unexplained pain in the mouth or throat, red or white patches inside the mouth, difficulty in chewing, swallowing or speaking, and a lump or swelling in the neck or jaw.
"A non-healing ulcer is one of the early warning signs of oral cancer. Patients often dismiss these as minor injuries but an ulcer that lasts more than three weeks should be taken seriously. It’s crucial to look for other symptoms like red or white patches or lumps in the mouth,” the dentist noted. He pointed out that winters may aggravate regular ulcers but the symptoms mentioned need to be looked out for and medical evaluation is recommended. The expert noted that though the presence of ulcers is not a definitive indicator, it is best advised to check with a doctor.
Other systemic conditions like lupus or Crohn’s disease also cause chronic ulcers and explain the connection between the oral condition and other serious issues. The doctor suggests guidelines to further avoid ulcers and take care of oral health, especially during the winter. "Routine visits can reveal abnormal sores or subtle changes you might overlook. Stay hydrated, avoid irritants like alcohol or acidic foods, and use a mild toothpaste such as Sensodyne. These small changes can have a big impact,” the dentist recommended.