Symptom 12: Frequent Throat Clearing: An Unsettling Habit
While often attributed to irritation or the presence of mucus, persistent and excessive throat clearing can indicate an underlying issue, including throat cancer.
Throat clearing is a reflexive action that helps remove irritants or excess mucus from the throat. However, in cases of throat cancer, the constant need to clear the throat may arise due to the tumor’s presence, causing discomfort or a persistent feeling of something being stuck in the throat.
When the need to clear your throat becomes a regular occurrence, it’s time to take notice. Persistent throat clearing that lasts for weeks, especially when combined with other symptoms such as voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or a lingering cough, warrants further investigation. (12)