Hi Dabanks - I had tonsil cancer myself about a year ago. Mine swelled up all the way to the uvula, ie my throat was half blocked. Of course that scared the doctors to death. It also got me an earlier surgery date.

My swelling was very firm as the ENT said upon exam, but it wasn't tender to touch. It didn't affect my breathing or my ability to chew or swallow.

Do what the others suggest, ie get yourself to an ENT experienced in oral cancer. All ENT's are not so experienced. If he suspects cancer he will suggest a biopsy of the mass. Even if he doesn't there's nothing preventing you from suggesting it, even if only to see what he says.

Hang in there, you will get through this, and we will be here backing you up every step of the way.

Tony

Tony, 69, non-smoker, aerobatics pilot, bridge player/teacher, avid dancer (ballroom, latin, swing, country)

09/13 SCC, HPV 16, tonsillectomy, T2N0.
11/13 start rads, no chemo
12/13 taste gone, dry mouth,
02/14 hair slowly returning
05/14 taste the same, dry sinuses, irrigation helps.
01/15 food taste about 60% returned, dry sinuses are worse in winter.
12/20 no more sinus problems, taste pretty good