Oral cancer can start on the tongue. It happens when cells mutate and grow out of control. Risk factors include smoking, heavy drinking, HPV, sun exposure, and bad oral hygiene. Early signs are sores that don’t heal, color changes, trouble swallowing, bleeding or numbness, and loose teeth.
Doctors use biopsies, imaging tests like CT scans and MRIs, and endoscopes to figure out what’s wrong with your tongue.
Treatment depends on the problem. It could be surgery, radiation, chemo, or immunotherapy.
To keep your tongue healthy, quit smoking and cut back on alcohol. Brush and floss daily and see the dentist. Get the HPV vaccine if you can. Protect your lips from the sun. Eat healthy foods and avoid junk.
Your tongue tells a story about your health. If something’s off, see a doctor. Early detection is the best defense against serious problems. Take care of your tongue, and it’ll take care of you.