[19M] Presenting with a painless oral mass

Patient Description

A 19-year-old male presents with a painless swelling on the left floor of the mouth, noticed 3 days ago. The patient describes the mass as submandibular in shape and size, not very large, and states that it has not increased in size since discovery. The consistency of the swelling is similar to the usual feel of the inside of the mouth, suggesting it may be soft. There is no associated pain, no history of trauma to the area, and no other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or changes in voice have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes of your symptoms include:

  • Mucocele: A mucocele is a harmless, fluid-filled swelling that occurs in the mouth, often on the lower lip or the floor of the mouth. They are caused by a blocked salivary gland.

    • Treatment typically involves a simple surgical procedure to remove the mucocele and the associated gland.
  • Salivary Gland Disorders: Your salivary glands produce saliva, and disorders can occur when the ducts that drain the glands become blocked. Symptoms can include swelling in the mouth or neck, and the area may feel firm or tender.

    • Treatment can range from simple measures such as drinking plenty of water and sucking on sour candies to stimulate saliva flow, to medications or procedures to remove any blockages.
  • Oral Cancer: While less likely given your age and the short duration of your symptoms, any new, unexplained growth in the mouth should be evaluated for the possibility of oral cancer.

    • Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cancer, and may also include radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Remember, I am an AI and not a doctor. You should seek care from a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment if appropriate.

What you can do

  1. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to get a formal diagnosis.
  2. Avoid biting or poking at the swelling as this could cause further damage.
  3. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

  • If the swelling rapidly increases in size
  • If you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • If you notice any changes in your voice or ability to speak
  • If the swelling becomes painful or you develop a fever.

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9 mo ago


People Also Ask


What is a mucocele and how is it treated?

A mucocele is a harmless, fluid-filled swelling that occurs in the mouth, often due to a blocked salivary gland. Treatment usually involves a simple surgical procedure to remove the mucocele and the associated gland.


What are common symptoms of salivary gland disorders?

Common symptoms of salivary gland disorders include swelling in the mouth or neck, a firm or tender area, and sometimes pain. Treatment can involve increasing saliva flow with hydration and sour candies, medications, or procedures to remove blockages.


How can I differentiate between a benign swelling and something more serious like oral cancer?

Benign swellings like mucoceles are usually painless and stable in size. However, if a swelling rapidly increases, becomes painful, or is accompanied by symptoms like difficulty swallowing or changes in voice, it should be evaluated for more serious conditions like oral cancer.


What immediate actions should I take if the swelling in my mouth changes?

If the swelling rapidly increases in size, becomes painful, or you experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, or changes in your voice, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition.

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