This is the most common early sign. A sore, blister, or ulcer in your mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks deserves attention.
What to look for: A persistent sore on your lip, tongue, or anywhere in your mouth that bleeds easily and doesn’t improve.
2. White or Red Patches
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Leukoplakia: White patches that can’t be scraped off. They’re often harmless, but some are precancerous.
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Erythroplakia: Red patches that are flat or slightly raised. These are more concerning and require immediate evaluation.
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Mixed red and white patches are particularly suspicious.
3. A Lump or Thickening
Any new lump, bump, or thickening in your cheek, lip, tongue, or neck that persists should be checked. It might not hurt—that doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
4. Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing
If you feel like food is getting stuck, or if swallowing becomes painful or difficult, don’t assume it’s just a sore throat.
5. Persistent Sore Throat or Hoarseness
A sore throat that lingers for weeks, or a change in your voice that doesn’t improve, can be a sign of cancer in the throat or voice box.