5. The Silent Warning – Pain in the Neck or Throat
The fifth sign on our list is pain in the neck or throat, which may even extend to the ears. Pain is our body’s alarm system, signaling that something isn’t quite right. In the case of PTC, this discomfort usually stems from the tumor’s growth, which can cause a stretching sensation or even outright pain.
This pain can range from mild, occasional discomfort to a constant, nagging ache, and its presence in conjunction with other symptoms such as a neck lump or voice changes can be a strong indicator of PTC. It’s our body’s way of waving a red flag, urging us to seek medical attention.
Like other symptoms, throat or neck pain can be attributed to various causes, such as a simple sore throat, tonsillitis, or even certain neck injuries. But, a persistent pain that doesn’t seem to go away with usual treatment, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms, warrants immediate medical attention.
An important point to remember is that PTC, like many other cancers, is not always accompanied by pain in its early stages. However, being aware of this potential symptom can prompt us to seek help sooner, reaffirming the old adage – knowledge is power. (5)
