Post Natal Nurse Home Visitor Program
Pharmacy Residency (PGY1)

Six signs of head and neck cancer

Next time you visit your doctor or dentist, it can be a good idea to ask about testing for head and neck cancer. Head and neck cancers can include cancer in the throat, lips, mouth and nose. Alcohol and tobacco are the biggest reasons for these types of cancers. The human papillomavirus (HPV) from oral sex can also cause head and neck cancers, especially in younger people. 

Parkland doctors say sometimes you may not have any symptoms, but if you do they can include:

  • A white or red patch on the gums, tongue or lining of the mouth
  • A sore that doesn’t heal or get better
  • Swelling of the jaw
  • Unusual bleeding or pain in the mouth
  • Having a hard time swallowing 
  • Trouble breathing or speaking

Make an appointment at a Parkland clinic.

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