Overview
Tongue cancer is a common form of oral cancer in Pakistan and is closely linked to tobacco, paan and gutka use. Found early, it can often be treated successfully.
Symptoms
- A sore or ulcer on the tongue that does not heal within three weeks
- A red or white patch on the tongue
- A lump or thickening of the tongue
- Pain when swallowing or speaking
- Numbness of the tongue
- Ear pain on the same side
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include smoking, chewing tobacco, naswar, paan, gutka and betel nut, alcohol, HPV infection and sharp or broken teeth rubbing the tongue.
Diagnosis
A doctor examines the mouth and neck and takes a biopsy. MRI, CT or PET scans show the size and spread.
Treatment
Treatment includes surgery to remove the tumour, often with reconstruction and removal of neck lymph nodes, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Speech and swallowing therapy help recovery.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or dentist for any tongue sore, patch or lump that lasts more than three weeks. Stopping tobacco and paan reduces the risk.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
