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Concerned about potential throat cancer, Advice?

Mysa
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Hi, I am a 23 yr old male and for the past 4-5 weeks I have noticed strange things with my throat. It all started when we were using this gritting product that caused great discomfort to my throat. I was using it for around 4 days and since then my throat has been incrediby sensitive to any irritants.

I would describe the feeling as a coldness in my lungs accompanyied by a very dry and uncomfortable throat.

It has only got worse and this week I have noticed voice changes (hoarseness), a constant need to clear my throat, the feeling something is in my throat that feels directly where the epiglottis is as when I open and close my throat it sounds like it closes/opens twice. 

What should I do? I spoke to my local GP and they can't schedule an appointment for 3 weeks. I am worried if it is cancer it will get progressively worse. Can anyone give me advice I am very anxious and do not know what to do

  • Hello and thanks for posting on the forum,

    I am sorry to hear that you are waiting for so long for your appointment. I can understand having symptoms can cause a lot of concern.

    We can't diagnose you but it does sound like you have been affected by using a specific product at work. Cancer of the throat is not very common at your age. It is usually a cancer of much older people in their 60's and 70's.

    If you can't get an appointment sooner then do speak to a pharmacist at your local chemist as they are usually a source of information and may suggest something to relieve your discomfort.

    If you feel that this is related to your work then do speak to your manger or foreman to let them know how you have been affected. 

    You may want to look at the government guidelines about Health and Safety at work to see how you should be protecting yourself. Have a look  here

    I do hope that your symptoms get better soon.

    All the Best,

    Catherine

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