Head and neck cancer can be hard to diagnose, because symptoms are often mild and can mimic less serious conditions such as a cold or sore throat. These symptoms include:
- A mouth or tongue sore that does not heal.
- A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
- A persistent sore throat.
- Hoarseness.
- Swelling in the jaw, neck or side of the face. This may cause dentures to fit poorly.
- Frequent sinus infections that don’t respond to antibiotics.
- Neck pain that won’t go away.
- Frequent headaches.
- Pain in the upper teeth.
- Bleeding through the nose or in the mouth, or blood in the saliva.
- Trouble swallowing.
- Persistent earaches.
- Trouble breathing or speaking.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to check with your physician immediately. They may be signs of less serious conditions, but a thorough exam should be done.
