Who Should I Go See First

luvdoodles · ‎06-19-2010

I have had a sore throat for about two months now, I did have a cold and just figured it was that. Cold is long gone but still have a sore throat on one side and swollen glands. Finally took a look at my throat with a flashlight and I can see a red sore. I am a smoker and now worried about oral or throat cancer. I really want to see a professional about this now. Do I begin with my PCP or my dentist. Our insurance is lousy and don't want to waste money on seeing the wrong kind of doctor. Who would you see first.

lynnzzz · ‎03-10-2010

While it is true a dentist is trained to detect oral cancer, I would go to a physician. An ENT, ear nose and throat, would be ideal. Good luck!

Perkup · ‎03-09-2010

I would see an Ear, Nose, Throat specialist immediately. You can never be too careful! There is nothing to be gained by waiting, so don't wait! Do it today!

Lacey1 · ‎03-09-2010

You may need a referral to see a specialist-plus it may take a while to get an appt. with one. Go to see your PCP at once. Often times, they can get you in faster, if you need a specialist.

adelle38 · ‎03-09-2010

See your PCP.

It's always a victory for me when I remember why I entered a room.

chrystaltree · ‎05-10-2010

See your Pcp first, you might need a referral for a visit with a specialist.

OLLIE1 · ‎03-17-2010

See your pcp first and if needed he will refer yoou to an EN. I am an RN

wagirl · ‎03-09-2010

YES< YES< YES---please go to an ENT as fast as you can!!!!!! I have a good friend who had a raw open sore in his mouth near a former tonsil and it ended up being squamous cell carcinoma and he is now on his 2nd day of radiation and will start chemo this week too. He had surgery to remove the tumor as well. Please don't wait. My friend got right on this and I'm glad to say that his outcome and survival is excellent. I'm sorry if this sounds scary but I am a 2 year survivor of breast cancer and went thro all the above in 2012.