To get the best experience while viewing this site, it is recommended that you upgrade to a modern browser version of Chrome or Firefox.

You may do so by clicking on one of these icons:


southern new mexico surgery center
 
  •  

    		•   
    Health Library Explorer
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
    Diabetes

    Mouth and Throat Tumors

    Finding out you have a tumor is scary. You may wonder what effect it will have on your life. Noncancerous (benign) tumors are easily treated. Cancerous tumors may also be managed well when detected early. Actively participate with your doctors to decide on your treatment, and be sure to address your concerns.

    What is a tumor?

    A tumor is a mass of abnormal cells. It's either slow-growing and not cancer (benign) or fast-growing and cancer (malignant). Some tumors, especially cancerous ones, can be life-threatening. But most tumors can be treated.

    Who's at risk for a cancerous tumor?

    You're more likely to get a tumor of the mouth or throat if you:

    • Smoke cigarettes, pipes, vapes, or cigars
    • Use chewing tobacco or snuff
    • Drink alcohol
    • Have poor oral health
    • Are exposed to certain industrial chemicals
    • Had a mouth or throat tumor in the past
    • History of radiation exposure in the head or neck region
    • Have a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
    • Are male (twice as common than females)
    • Have poor nutrition and have extra body weight

    Symptoms of a tumor in the mouth

    If you have a mouth tumor, you or your doctor may have noticed one or more of the following:

    • White or red patches on the cheeks, tongue, palate, or gums
    • Mouth pain or numbness that doesn't go away
    • A sore that doesn't heal in 1 or 2 weeks
    • Loose teeth without any obvious injury
    • Bleeding from the mouth that doesn't stop after a few days
    • A swelling or lump that doesn't go away
    • Problems with your teeth, dentures, or chewing

    Symptoms of a tumor in the throat

    If you have a throat tumor, you or your doctor may have noticed one or more of the following:

    • Hoarseness that doesn't go away
    • Trouble swallowing
    • A lump in your neck
    • Throat pain that doesn't go away
    • Aching, pain, or pressure in your ear
    • A lasting cough, with or without bloody sputum
    • Unexplained weight loss
    Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
    Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Shaziya Allarakha MD
    Date Last Reviewed: 3/1/2024
    © 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
    horizontal line

    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center
    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Copyright © The StayWell Company, LLC. except where otherwise noted.
    Disclaimer