I need to know what signs I need to look for or symptoms for throat cancer. I am 28 years old female and I have been smoking since I was about 18 years old. I go through a pack in couple of day. I don't think I am a heavy smoker but I guess that just depends on everyone. I am currently caughing a lot and it's like a dry caugh during the day. It also hurts when I swallow, and I have been taking advil for the pain but I am still caughing. I know I should go see a doctor but I thought it was just a cold and I was trying to wait it out but it's been exactly a week now and I am just scared it might be throat cancer. I just need to advice from some of you out there and I would really appreciate and feedback. I am even scared to go to the doctor just because they might tell me it's you know what.... Help... Thank you.

Persistent cough and sore throat could be caused by many disease from benign such as viral and bacterial infections or cancer.

Regarding your age, I think you have low risk of cancer.
However, the fact that you are smoker for the last 10 years could cause many health problems.

I think nobody could give you exact explanation except a doctor who can examine your throat directly.

Wish you healthy

I would see a doctor. Cancer, that nasty little devil, has no limit on age. Smoking will cause throat cancer along with gerd, alcohol, acid reflux and many other things including genetics.

If you have a sore throat and a cough see your doctor. It may be nothing and yet it may be something. Early detection gives the best odds for a complete cure.
Good luck to you,
Barbara~

if you haven't already--PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE go see a doctor--that is how my dad's throat cancer started--awful awful dry cough and a change in his voice that his doctor actually noticed during a check up...