In addition to his work in robotic and minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Nayak stresses the importance of regular self-examinations and awareness.
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 27: Mouth ulcers are common and often harmless, but when they persist for an extended period or reappear frequently, they can signal something more serious. One such concern is tongue cancer, a type of head and neck cancer that often presents itself through symptoms like persistent mouth ulcers, pain, and swelling. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a renowned head and neck surgery expert, highlights the importance of paying attention to mouth ulcers that do not heal, as they may be an early indicator of tongue cancer.
Dr. Nayak, an expert in head and neck surgery, emphasizes that while most mouth ulcers are benign and heal on their own, those that linger for weeks or keep returning should not be ignored. "Many patients treat recurring mouth ulcers as simple irritations or minor infections, but if they persist and show no signs of healing, it’s crucial to seek medical advice," Dr. Nayak explains. "Unhealed ulcers, particularly in the mouth or on the tongue, can be a symptom of underlying issues such as oral cancer or tongue cancer, which may require immediate attention."
Tongue cancer, a subtype of oral cancer, is characterized by abnormal cell growth on the tongue that can affect both the surface and deeper tissues. Symptoms may start subtly with pain, ulcers, or swelling that seem like a regular mouth sore. However, if the ulcer does not heal over time or is accompanied by additional symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or changes in speech, it could indicate a more serious condition. Dr. Nayak advises that these symptoms should prompt a visit to a specialist for an early diagnosis.
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As a leading surgical oncologist in Bangalore, Dr. Nayak has treated numerous cases of oral and tongue cancer with his innovative surgical techniques. His expertise in head and neck surgery includes minimally invasive procedures, such as Robotic-Assisted Neck Dissection (RIA-MIND) and Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), which enable more precise tumor removal, reduced scarring, and quicker recovery. These advancements have improved outcomes for patients with head and neck cancers, offering hope for those affected by conditions like tongue cancer.
When it comes to detecting tongue cancer, Dr. Nayak emphasizes the importance of early intervention. “The earlier we detect and treat tongue cancer, the better the chances of successful treatment and recovery,” he says. "Many patients come to me after months of living with a persistent ulcer, only to find that the cancer has spread, making the treatment process more complex. Routine screening and regular check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of late-stage diagnoses."
Dr. Nayak’s commitment to using minimally invasive surgical techniques has made him a pioneer in head and neck surgery. His approach minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, preserving critical functions like speech and swallowing, which are often affected in traditional surgeries for tongue cancer. "The ability to preserve a patient's quality of life while effectively treating cancer is at the heart of what I do," says Dr. Nayak.
In addition to his work in robotic and minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Nayak stresses the importance of regular self-examinations and awareness. He encourages patients to monitor their oral health closely and consult a specialist if any abnormalities persist for more than two weeks. "We want to catch these issues early and address them before they become more complicated," Dr. Nayak adds. "Patients often ignore persistent symptoms, thinking they will go away on their own, but early treatment is the key to success."
For those who may be concerned about persistent mouth ulcers or suspect they could be symptoms of tongue cancer, Dr. Nayak recommends seeking an expert evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Dr. Sandeep Nayak is available for consultation at:
MACS Clinic
No. 96/A/9/1, 42nd Cross, 3rd Main, 8th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru – 560070
Phone: +91 96327 77612
Email: info@drsandeepnayak.com
KIMS Hospitals - Mahadevapura
Survey No. 36/5, Outer Ring Road, Doddanekkundi, Mahadevapura, K.R. Puram Hobli, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560037
KIMS Hospitals - Electronic City
Survey No. 37 & 38, PES University EC Campus, Hosur Road, Konappana Agrahara, Electronic City, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560100
For more information, visit www.drsandeepnayak.com
About Dr. Sandeep Nayak
Dr. Sandeep Nayak is a highly respected head and neck surgeon with extensive experience in treating head and neck cancers, including thyroid, oral, and tongue cancers. As a pioneer in robotic and minimally invasive surgery, he offers state-of-the-art treatment options that prioritize both oncologic safety and preserving quality of life. He practices at MACS Clinic in Bangalore and is affiliated with KIMS Hospitals in Mahadevapura and Electronic City.
