Symptom 8: Pain in the Neck or Throat
Pain in the neck or throat can be a symptom of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. The pain typically originates from the area of the thyroid gland, where the cancerous tumor is located. As the tumor enlarges, it may press against surrounding tissues, nerves, or the windpipe, causing pain.
Pain associated with MTC may initially be mild and intermittent, which can lead many to dismiss it as insignificant. However, as the disease progresses, the pain can become more constant and severe. It can also be exacerbated by swallowing or turning the neck in certain ways.
While neck or throat pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, persistent pain, particularly when coupled with any other symptoms discussed in this article, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Remember, early detection of MTC can significantly impact the prognosis and effectiveness of treatment strategies. (8)