The mouth is one of the most important organs that reflects the overall health of the body, as some signs that appear can indicate serious diseases such as cancer and HIV. For example, the presence of an ulcer on the lips, inside the cheeks, or on the gums may be a sign of HIV infection. The virus attacks the body's immune system and, in rare cases, can lead to AIDS if the body's defenses become paralyzed to the point where the patient's life is at risk. Currently, there is no cure for HIV, but there are very effective medications that enable most infected individuals to live long and healthy lives, provided it is diagnosed early.
Gum bleeding, swelling, or redness can be a sign of gum disease. This condition not only leads to tooth loss but there is an increasing body of evidence suggesting that it is linked to life-threatening conditions such as dementia and heart diseases. Swollen, bleeding, and ulcerated gums can also be a sign of leukemia. Other symptoms of leukemia outside the mouth include fever, chills, weight loss, fatigue, easy bruising, small red spots on the skin, and frequent nosebleeds.
