I've been having this strange sound in my ear, like a buzzing or hissing, and I think it's tinnitus. It's been going on for about four months now, and it only happens in one ear. It's making it really hard for me to sleep or focus during the day. I've read that tinnitus might not be treatable, and I'm feeling really stuck. Could you maybe give me some advice or guidance on what I should do next?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ibrahim Salah

General Practitioner

MBBS
2+ Yrs

Consult Now

Feeling like something is stuck in your throat can be unsettling!

Given your tobacco and pan masala addiction, it's essential to take this symptom seriously.

Possible Causes

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF): A precancerous condition common in tobacco and pan masala users.

Tobacco-related lesions: Leukoplakia, erythroplakia, or other lesions can cause throat irritation.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid flowing up into the throat can cause discomfort.

Throat infection or inflammation: Bacterial or viral infections can cause throat irritation.

Cancer Risk

While it's impossible to diagnose cancer without a medical examination, your tobacco and pan masala addiction increases your risk of developing oral, throat, or esophageal cancer.

Urgent Action Required

Consult an ENT specialist or oncologist: Schedule an appointment for a thorough examination and diagnosis.

Get a biopsy or imaging tests: If necessary, undergo tests to rule out cancer or other serious conditions.

Quit tobacco and pan masala: Seek professional help to overcome your addiction and reduce your cancer risk.

Don't delay seeking medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

Dr. Ibrahim Suggests...

Consult a Ent Specialist

Find a Ent Specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

More ENT Health Queries

View all

I've been feeling this mild pain on the left side of my throat, but only when I yawn. It's weird because swallowing food doesn't hurt at all. This has been happening on and off for the past week. The pain seems to be on the outside rather than inside my throat, and there's no swelling that I can see. What could this be? Is there something I should be worried about?

Could be due to muscle strain or irritation. Since you do not experience pain while swallowing food and there is no swelling in your throat, it is less likely to be an infection. You can try taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to help with the discomfort. Additionally, you can try using throat lozenges or gargling with warm salt water to soothe the area. If the pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.