2023-06-19 22:00:00
Written by Enas Al-Banna, Tuesday, June 20, 2023 01:00 AM
Do you have white spots On the mucous membranes of your mouth? Do you feel discomfort or sensitivity in the affected area? These spots can be worrisome as they may indicate potential changes in the cells lining the affected areas, and may indicate a serious health condition known as leukoplakia.
What is leukoplakia
According to the “webmd” website, leukoplakia is a condition characterized by the formation of white spots or plaques in the mouth that cannot be easily scraped off. These spots may appear on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheek and require urgent attention. Failure to treat leukoplakia immediately can lead to its development into cancer. mouth, making early identification and effective control measures critical.
Symptoms: Recognize the warning signs
Leukoplakia often presents with painless, irregularly shaped, slightly raised white patches that may appear red. It is necessary to distinguish these patches from those that can be easily rubbed or scraped, which may indicate a different condition such as oral thrush.
Causes: Tobacco and other factors increase risk
No smoking
Long-term tobacco use, whether by smoking or chewing, remains the leading cause of leukoplakia. Other contributing factors include:
Alcohol
Excessive and long-term alcohol consumption is another common risk factor for leukoplakia. Alcohol can also irritate mucous membranes, making them more vulnerable to cellular changes.
Chronic irritation
Persistent irritation of the oral mucosa, such as jagged teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or persistent biting or chewing of the inside of the cheek, can contribute to the development of leukoplakia.
Human papilloma virus infection
Certain strains of human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted infection, have been associated with leukoplakia, especially in the oral cavity. Ill-fitting or broken dentures, cheek injuries, and broken or uneven teeth can also add to this cause.
Timely diagnosis saves lives
If the white patch in the mouth persists for more than two weeks, immediate evaluation by a dentist or medical practitioner is imperative. Through a thorough examination and possibly a biopsy, a health care professional can confirm a diagnosis of leukoplakia, and rule out other possible causes and abnormal cell growth.
Treatment and prevention: Early intervention is key
Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the size and progression of the spots.” Lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, can reduce or resolve the spots. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove spots that pose a cancer risk.
Leukoplakia can progress to fatal oral cancer
Leukoplakia carries a chilling risk of developing oral cancer over time. Therefore, individuals with persistent leukoplakia should have frequent follow-ups, while those whose condition has resolved should have annual check-ups to ensure continued oral health.
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