Concerns After Tongue Lesion Removal: Pain and Possible Cancer Risks

Q: Concerns After Tongue Lesion Removal: Pain and Possible Cancer Risks

Q1： There is a growth under the tongue that keeps reappearing after being bitten, and the skin has thickened. <br>A major hospital performed excision and sutured the wound. <br>Three days post-surgery, the wound feels numb and painful. <br>It is advised to return to the dentist f

Issues After Removal of Growth Under the Tongue

Q1: I have developed a growth under my tongue (on the right side) that has been there for two to three months.
I keep biting it, and it keeps growing back, with the skin seeming to thicken.
When I visited the dentist, they couldn't treat it and referred me to a larger hospital, where it was surgically removed.
After stitching it up, the doctor only advised me to avoid spicy and hot foods.
However, I am in so much pain that I can barely speak or eat; I can only drink.
I have been taking the pain medication prescribed by the doctor, but after three days, the pain persists.
Additionally, the tip of my tongue on the right side has been numb and painful, and touching it causes even more pain.
Is this normal?
Q2: I also saw online that "if an ulcer appears on the tongue and does not heal after one or two months, it could be a sign of tongue cancer.
You can self-examine the ulcer; a simple ulcer should feel soft, but if the wound feels hard, it is best to seek medical attention for a biopsy." This statement is somewhat similar to my situation, as my growth also feels hard.
Is this possible? I'm only 15 years old.
Thank you! ^_^

Ms. V, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/31

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Q1: There is a growth under the tongue that keeps reappearing after being bitten, and the skin has thickened.
A major hospital performed excision and sutured the wound.
Three days post-surgery, the wound feels numb and painful.
It is advised to return to the dentist for post-operative wound care and to follow the physician's instructions regarding medication and oral hygiene.
Q2: If an ulcerated wound has not healed after two weeks and feels hard to the touch, it is best to see a doctor immediately for an examination.
If necessary, a biopsy should be performed.

Reply Date: 2015/07/31

More Info

After the removal of a tongue lesion, it is understandable to have concerns regarding pain and potential cancer risks, especially given the nature of the lesion and the symptoms you are experiencing. Let’s address your questions and provide some additional context regarding post-operative care and cancer risks.

Q1: Is the pain and numbness after tongue lesion removal normal?
It is not uncommon to experience pain and discomfort after a surgical procedure, especially in sensitive areas such as the tongue. The tongue is a highly vascularized and innervated organ, which means that any surgical intervention can lead to significant pain, swelling, and altered sensation. The fact that you are experiencing pain when speaking or eating is concerning, but it may be a normal part of the healing process.
Typically, after such procedures, patients are advised to follow specific post-operative care instructions, including avoiding spicy or hot foods, which can irritate the surgical site. If you are still experiencing significant pain three days post-surgery, it is important to communicate this to your healthcare provider. They may need to reassess your pain management plan or check for any complications such as infection or improper healing.

The numbness and pain in the tip of your tongue could be due to nerve irritation or damage during the procedure. This can happen, but it should gradually improve as the healing progresses. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek further evaluation.

Q2: Should I be concerned about the possibility of cancer?
Your concern regarding the potential for cancer, particularly if the lesion was hard and has not healed, is valid. While many lesions in the mouth are benign, persistent ulcers or lesions that do not heal within a few weeks warrant further investigation. The characteristics you mentioned—such as the hardness of the lesion—can sometimes be associated with malignancies, including tongue cancer.

At your age (15 years), the likelihood of developing oral cancer is relatively low, but it is not impossible. Factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and certain viral infections (like HPV) can increase the risk of oral cancers. It is essential to monitor any changes in the lesion, including size, shape, and texture. If you notice that the area remains hard, continues to grow, or if new symptoms develop, you should return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation, which may include a biopsy.

In summary, while pain and discomfort are common after tongue surgery, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns. They can provide the best guidance on managing your pain and monitoring for any potential complications or risks associated with cancer. Regular follow-ups and self-examinations of your oral cavity can also help in early detection of any issues. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed.

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