I have had a sore throat for nearly two years, and doctors told me I had "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" and not to worry about it. As time passes my oral cavity is getting really oddly colored. There is almost a bruise-like color all around my soft palate and the back part of my lower jaw and gums (underneath the molars). The rest of the palate area and most of the oral cavity seems to have this white film over it. Now the white filmy "stuff" is getting interspersed with bright red veins, very close to the surface. I have an appointment with an ENT on June 11th, and I guess I'm finally starting to worry some now that I've checked out the internet a bit. Do you think I'm overreacting? I'm 47 years old, female.

Thank you for your help!

A long term sore throat is one of the warning signs of cancer. This does not mean you have it, but it does mean that you should get a definitive diagnosis as to why this has persisted. More than one opinion from someone else besides your ENT that is oral cancer oriented would be worthwhile. Discolorations of the gingiva in the mouth whether bluish or with red and white coloration are also not positive indicators, and are potential causes for concern. Precancerous conditions such as leukoplakia and erythroplakia, as well as melanoma all discolor oral tissues. Please do not delay any longer in having this checked out. A simple biopsy of the area can put your mind at rest, or get you proper help if it is something that requires more serious concern and action. Do not go with one person