Answer:

Tongue cancer occurs when cells in the lining of the tongue grow abnormally and become malignant. Without prompt and proper treatment, the disease can affect speech and swallowing, and may spread to other organs. Treatment for tongue cancer depends on several factors, including the location of the tumor and the extent of its spread. Surgery involves removing part or all of the tongue. If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or there's a risk of it spreading there, the doctor may also perform a neck dissection.

Radiotherapy is often used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. For patients with large or widespread tumors, radiotherapy may be administered before surgery to shrink the tumor. In some cases, radiotherapy is used as the sole treatment, especially if the cancer has spread to other areas. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy are typically reserved for advanced stages of tongue cancer to help extend life expectancy and improve quality of life.

Since you haven't specified the stage of your tongue cancer, it's difficult to provide specific advice. You should consult a doctor for a thorough examination. Based on your health, the stage of the cancer, and any other medical conditions, your doctor can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

In its early stages, tongue cancer often presents with vague symptoms like the feeling of having a foreign object in the mouth or a sore on the tongue, which can easily be overlooked. As the disease progresses, patients may experience difficulty speaking or swallowing, fatigue, and rapid weight loss. In advanced stages, tongue cancer has a high risk of spreading to the lungs and bones, impacting quality of life and leading to a poorer prognosis.

While the exact cause of tongue cancer is unknown, certain risk factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and exposure to the HPV virus can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Limiting exposure to these factors can help prevent tongue cancer. Anyone with persistent sores or ulcers on their tongue should consult a Head and Neck Surgeon for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

MSc. MD. Specialist II Pham Tuan Manh

Head and Neck Surgery Department

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM