Posted By: Han2267 Should i be worried? - 04-28-2017 06:01 PM
I have a lump behind my right tonsil it moves when I cough and fells like I have something's lodged back there, it is the size of a pea and has not changed size scince I first noticed it. I think there Is a smaller one behind my left tonsil as I can feel it slightly. I have had this lump for over 3 months now, I keep researching what it could be and am finding nothing conclusive I don't have an ENT near me. Is it worth driving to one to get it looked at, if it is nothing it will be a wasted journey(cost). I have slight pain there like I have been shouting for a while. I have more headaches lately and occasionally ear pain in my right ear that is not severe and fades fast Can anyone advice me if it would be worth the cost of travel.
Posted By: ChristineB Re: Should i be worried? - 04-29-2017 02:06 AM
Welcome to OCF, Han!

Anyone who has any type of lump or sore in their mouth for 2 weeks or more and it does not heal on its own needs to get it checked by a professional. By a professional I mean an ENT who specializes in treating oral cancer (OC) patients (not the ENT type who puts tubes in kids ears). An ENT who specializes in OC should be able to easily determine if what you have going on needs further treatment. Only thru a biopsy is it confirmed exactly what it is.

It is absolutely in your best interest to seek out a qualified ENT. Often OC has no big symptoms that jump out at you. This makes it difficult to diagnose when only mild symptoms are usually ignored. Oral cancer is a deadly disease that if not taken care of will surely lead to a very unpleasant death. Of course over the internet with limited info and no medical degree or background no one here can tell you exactly if what you have is OC or not. We do speak from experience and know you dont want to fool around and not get checked by the right physician. Oral cancer knows no limits when it comes to age, sex, race, economic standing or location. I cant begin to tell you how horrible OC can be with its brutal treatments and life changing side effects. I hope you do not have this but if you do you have found the best resource to help you get thru it.

Maybe you will be lucky and find someplace that is doing the free OC screenings for April's oral cancer awareness month. Heres the link to check if theres something near you.

Please stop back and let us know how you make out.

OCF free screening events

Good luck!!!
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