What are symptoms and signs of salivary gland cancer?
Possible signs of salivary gland cancer include a lump or trouble swallowing. Salivary gland cancer may not cause any symptoms. It is sometimes found during a regular dental check-up or physical exam. Symptoms caused by salivary gland cancer also may be caused by other conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur: • A lump (usually painless) in the area of the ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth. • Fluid draining from the ear. • Trouble swallowing or opening the mouth widely. • Numbness or weakness in the face. • Pain in the face that does not go away. What exams and tests are used to detect and diagnose salivary gland cancer? Tests that examine the head, neck, and the inside of the mouth are used to detect (find) and diagnose salivary gland cancer. The following procedures may be used: • Physical exam and history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health. The head, neck, mouth, and throat will be checked for signs of disease, such a
