I've been lurking on this forum for about a week now, and I've been blown away by how supportive and kind you all are.

The reason I decided to sign up and create this post, is to get other people's perspective. I tend to work myself up a lot, and assume the worst too often

There is a spot on the right side of my tongue towards the back, on the posterior lateral border. It's not very large, it's about the same color as my tongue, and has white borders. It has been there for almost a month now. It doesn't hurt. It doesn't bleed. I know that because of the amount of time it has been there I need to go see a Dr. Do I need to be referred to an oral surgeon by my dentist, or can I just call them to set up an appointment? I don't think there are any ENTs in my area that specialize in oral cancer.

I am a 25 year old female. I recently quit smoking. I didn't start until I was between 20 and 21. For a year and a half before I fully quit, I cut back drastically to about two a day. I have a 9 month old daughter, and tomorrow I will be entering my 16th week of pregnancy. I am just so terrified of what this could be. I've convinced myself that it has to be something awful. I would love to hear any of your thoughts and advice, as I try to get an appointment set up and biopsy done. I absolutely hate this feeling of not knowing, and assuming the worst.

Hi KJ,

I'm a newbie to this forum too, but like yourself, I've found it to be very informative and supportive.

We've all broken the first rule of thumb and gone out and Googled. I assure you it will do nothing but scare the bejeebers out of you.

1st thing is: It's not cancer until the tests and doctors say it's cancer!

2nd thing: Depending on how your insurance works (if you have it) etc., see your primary doctor and get a referral to an ENT that specializes in Head and Neck cancer. If he doesn't know of one, there are searches you can do to find a Comprehensive Cancer Center near you: http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/rankings/cancer. Once you find one, you can browse the staff and look up the doctors and get reviews etc. If indeed this turns out to be cancer, a 2nd opinion is warranted and advisable.

In the mean time, as hard as waiting will be, that's what you have to do. "IF" this is serious, it typically can take from 4-12 weeks before treatment can start (DX'd Nov. 30th 2012, 1st treatment March 14th 2013.

Positive thoughts and prayers

"T"

Thank you so much for your response, T! I will check out that link you provided. I will do my best to remain positive in the mean time.

Positive thoughts and prayers to you as well with your treatment.

Since the sore has been there for a month you need to find an ENT who specializes in oral cancer to check you out. Thru a biopsy will they be able to determine if it is something serious. It depends on your insurance if you need a referral or not. Call your insurance company and ask so you can get the ball rolling. The earlier something is discovered, the easier it is to treat.

Best wishes!!!

KJ - I'm so glad you found this forum! Here you will find the most accurate information anywhere, plus the compassionate support of people who have had similar experiences. You have so much to live for and your health is very, very important. Do start making the necessary phone calls and impress on those you talk to how important it is for you to get answers as soon as possible. It may not be anything serious but whatever it is, you will feel lots better once you know for sure what it is and can start doing something about it. Maybe the GYN you are seeing about your pregnancy can recommend an ENT or Oral Surgeon with oral cancer experience? Stressing is not good for anyone so be firm about making an early appointment. They can move appointments around or fit you in between other appointments. Cry a little if you have to, to get an early appointment. When my son had an appointment with the ENT two weeks away, I was such a basket case of nerves, we got it moved closer to the very next business day. It can happen! Good luck and let us know how it goes.

KJ, yep, ENT is the way to go. If there is a delay, get to a dentist earlier. Mine was the one who caught it and pushed to get me early appointments with an ENT (I ended up seeing 3).

Good luck!