I am 27 years old and chewed tobacco for 6 years heavily. I also drank more than the average person. I quit chewing tobacco approximately 4 years ago but still drink more than I should. 3 years ago I started to get a feeling like something was in my throat. About a year later I would get the feeling like my face is tingly (like I just shaved). The feeling in my throat is constant and does not come and go but does not affect my swallowing. Also the tingly feeling does come and go. I immediately went to my doctor 3 years ago and he referred me to an ENT. In the past 3 years I have seen approximately 10 ENT's on average twice a month. They said it is reflux/minor irritation. I have also been to the ER (Johns HOpkins one of the best in the world and they said the same). They have all said it is nothing to worry about and they said if it was something serious/cancer something would show up visiually. Everything looks okay, but I feel like all of these ENT's just think I am crazy, but I know what I feel. I realize no one can diagnose me, but any advice? Thanks to all.

If you have seen that many ENT's and they all say the same thing, they are probably right. If this was cancer, three years time would be more then enough for it to present itself in a more defined way.

look, be glad you do not have cancer. Stop drinking as you are obviously worried about that then see how your swollowing feels after a few months.

Maryland,

My question to you would be what's it going to take to convince you that you're OK? It's been three years, you've been to several ENT's and you're still alive. If you had cancer untreated for that long you would most likely be dead or on the verge of dying by now.

You admit to having a drinking problem and obviously understand that alcohol is a risk factor for Oral Cancer...which you're worried you have, yet you continue to drink? I mean I understand that you're only 27 and may not have come to the realization that you don't know everything yet...but let me clue you in on something...you don't know everything.

We stress on these boards to seek 2nd opinions, even 3rds from reputable facilities...but gimme a break...10? Seriously? Lay off the sauce kid and wake up and realize that the Dr's aren't the one with a problem here. My advice is to seek professional help...but not from an ENT who will just confirm what the last 10 already told you.

Maryland

Since my tumor grew for seven years without any symptoms until the last two years (an unremitting earache), and during that time I was "cleared" by several ENTs, I am inclined to be more sympathetic to your fears. All you need is to get a head and neck CT scan or an MRI. My tumor would have been spotted had I done so. If your CT or MRI are clear, then I echo EricS advice.
Charm

Hi, I am new, but have you researched tonsillitis?
Just and idea.

I second the opinion that it is likely after 10 professional looks it is not cancer. What are the odds that 10 doctors, including Johns Hopkins staff would miss it? But I also side with the idea that a definitive yes or no would be simplified by a head and neck MRI. If this is really chewing on you, ask your dr. to prescribe one and have it read by someone competent in H&N cancers - ie. Johns Hopkins.