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Is excess phlegm in a smoker a sign of throat cancer?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been having excess phlegm for the last two weeks. It is sometimes green in color or clear color. Phlegm comes sometimes when I am talking. There is also hoarseness of voice. I smoke cigarettes, although trying to quit. Have not smoked for three weeks. Can this be throat cancer? I am worried.

Answered by Dr. Mohammed Osama Aboborda

Education:

DLO

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mohammed Osama Aboborda is an Otolaryngologist with rich clinical experience in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. He is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care with a focus on restoring function and improving quality of life. His expertise includes managing sinus diseases, hearing loss, throat conditions, and performing minimally invasive ENT procedures.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Throat cancer is the last diagnosis to be expected. Firstly, you have a bacterial infection revealed by the green sputum. So you have to take an antibiotic as Targo (Levofloxacin) 750 mg once daily for 10 days plus hot fluids. You must have an endoscopic examination of your larynx to detect the cause of hoarseness. Do not speak loudly and avoid spicy and cold foods. Show me the picture of the laryngoscope when you have it.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At July 16, 2018
Reviewed At June 14, 2024

Education:

DLO

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mohammed Osama Aboborda is an Otolaryngologist with rich clinical experience in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. He is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care with a focus on restoring function and improving quality of life. His expertise includes managing sinus diseases, hearing loss, throat conditions, and performing minimally invasive ENT procedures.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

DLO

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mohammed Osama Aboborda is an Otolaryngologist with rich clinical experience in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. He is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care with a focus on restoring function and improving quality of life. His expertise includes managing sinus diseases, hearing loss, throat conditions, and performing minimally invasive ENT procedures.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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