What are the symptoms of each stage of oral cancer?

The symptoms of oral cancer vary as the disease progresses: 1. In the early stages, oral cancer may present as long-lasting oral ulcers, changes in the color of the oral mucosa, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. At this stage, symptoms are relatively mild and may be accompanied by slight pain or discomfort. 2. As the disease progresses to the middle stage, noticeable lumps or hard nodules may appear in the oral cavity, ulcers persist and may be accompanied by severe pain. Meanwhile, swollen lymph nodes in the neck may worsen, and symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, bleeding, and numbness may occur. 3. In the advanced stage, symptoms of oral cancer become more severe, including significant difficulty swallowing, increased salivation, and speech disorders. Patients may rapidly lose weight and develop malnutrition and anemia. At this stage, oral cancer may have metastasized to distant sites, such as the brain or lungs, causing corresponding symptoms of metastasis. Treatment becomes more challenging in advanced oral cancer, and the prognosis is generally poor. If you have any concerns or experience any symptoms, please seek medical attention promptly and follow the advice of a qualified physician.