Jakarta - Common symptoms such as a sore throat during the flu season are usually harmless, but if they last a long time they could indicate a more serious health problem.
As quoted in the Medical Daily broadcast on Tuesday (8/4), radiation oncologist at the Proton Therapy Center Dr. Jiri Kubes emphasized the importance of checking your health if you experience symptoms of illness that do not go away, especially a sore throat that lasts more than three weeks.
He warned that a long-lasting sore throat could be an early sign of tonsil cancer, a type of throat cancer.
"A sore throat is very common and can be caused by a number of conditions, but if your sore throat is persistent and doesn't get better or gets worse, your doctor will be able to examine you and refer you for further tests if necessary," says Dr Kubes.
Hoarseness that lasts more than three weeks is one of the most common signs of laryngeal cancer.
Other symptoms include persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, lump in the throat, persistent sore throat, and unexplained weight loss.
So, you should immediately see a doctor if you experience such symptoms for a long time.