Symptoms Of Leukoplakia To Watch Out For

Hard And Raised Surface

Photo Credit: MedicalNewsToday

Leukoplakia patches develop over time if the mouth is consistently exposed to an irritant. As they become larger and more defined, they will often develop a hard and raised surface, which looks like a slightly elevated disc within the mouth. You might find it on your gums, tongue, or cheeks.

Smoking and tobacco use are the most common mouth irritants that cause leukoplakia to develop this far, but other irritants might cause the raised surface as well. Your teeth might abrade the inside of your mouth, including your lips and cheeks. Rough crowns or fillings may need to be re-evaluated. Ill-fitting dentures are another common irritant in the elderly.

Discover another symptom now.

Hairy Patches

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In almost all cases, hairy leukoplakia will be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). When you've been exposed to this virus, it will continue to remain inside your body for the rest of your life. In most cases, EBV is dormant, but it's still possible it will cause the development of hairy leukoplakia patches.

It's very common for individuals with hairy patches to have HIV, AIDS, or AIDS-related illness. This doesn't necessarily need to be AIDS, but generally involves another illness that compromises the immune system. Such a compromise of the immune system is what causes the Epstein-Barr virus to cease being dormant.

Keep reading for more information on the warning signs of leukoplakia now.

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