7. Sore Throat – A Common Complaint with a Sinister Side
A sore throat is a common complaint we’ve all experienced. It’s usually due to benign causes like a cold, the flu, or maybe a bit of shouting at a concert. However, when a sore throat persists for an extended period, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as throat cancer.
A tumor in the throat can cause irritation and discomfort, resulting in a sore throat. This may feel like a raw, burning sensation, or it may feel as though there’s a lump in the throat. The pain may be constant, or it may come and go. It may be more noticeable when swallowing.
As with many other symptoms discussed here, a persistent sore throat doesn’t definitively indicate throat cancer. It can be due to other conditions such as tonsillitis, laryngitis, or GERD. However, if a sore throat persists for more than a couple of weeks, or if it’s accompanied by other throat cancer symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. (7)
