Weird Feeling in throat

[crod]

Hello,

I am a 19 year old male, who has been smoking for about 2 years. About a pack every 2/3 days. I have been having a itchy feeling in my throat lately that feels like its on the end of my tongue. Not sure when this has started, it is recent though. Possibly when this cold I got 3 days ago started. I also have been having an ongoing ear infection and one of my lymph nodes is swollen. I have always had problems with my ears since childhood. The ear infection has been around for 2 months now. Well, I put my finger down my throat, and on the right side it feels a little soft and fleshy and the right side is nice and firm. If i pull my toungue all the way back and make it erect while my mouth is closed I can feel somthing touching the side of my throat.

Could this be part of the ear infection or do I possibly have throat cancer?
What are the odds that I have throat cancer.

I am not coughing up blood, or have had unusually bad breath, and weight loss. I am going to the doctor when my med insurance kicks back in next month.

Thanks for any of your replies.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Various types of upper respiratory or oropharyngeal infections can lead to the symptoms.  Appropriate testing and treatment with antibiotics should be considered.

If the feeling continues, a largynoscopy can be considered to evaluate for cancer.  GERD can also lead to this feeling - and can be evaluated with an upper GI series.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician, or in conjunction with an ENT specialist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[crod]

Also I had blood tests done 1 month ago, in general good health.

[crod]

I do have alot of heartburn, thanks Doctor.