Symptom 4: Chronic Cough
A chronic, persistent cough that doesn’t seem to be associated with a respiratory condition such as bronchitis or a common cold could be another symptom of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. This cough often seems unprovoked, without the typical triggers like a cold or allergies.
The exact connection between a chronic cough and MTC is not entirely clear. However, it is believed that as the cancerous tumor enlarges, it may press against nerve endings in the throat or chest, triggering a persistent cough. This symptom can be especially noticeable if it is nonproductive (a cough that doesn’t bring up mucus) and persists for several weeks.
While a persistent cough can be irritating and inconvenient, it’s essential not to dismiss this symptom. If you have a cough that lingers for more than a few weeks, especially if it’s accompanied by any of the other symptoms discussed in this article, it is prudent to seek medical advice. (4)