Hello--I am a 34-year-old female non-smoker (I've never smoked) and occasional social drinker.

About 4 days ago I noticed that a spot on the side of my tongue hurt a little when I swallowed food or drink, but I couldn't see anything on my tongue. The next day, I still felt the soreness and I could feel a little bump on my tongue.

Then, about 2 days ago, the bump turned into a small, roundish ulcer. The edges of the ulcer are white and the center is milky pink. There is a very small red ring around the ulcer. It's extremely painful; for the last couple days I haven't really been able to eat much solid food. OTC oral pain gel helps.

After reading this site and others, I got extremely worried and went to a doctor today. She said it was very unlikely it was something serious and it was probably just a canker sore or other viral ulcer, and that if it's not better in a week to call her.

I'm still freaking out, however. I've never had something like this in my mouth and am terrified of cancer. I wish the doctor had just done the biopsy today to put my mind at ease.

Have any of you experienced similar symptoms? I feel like i'm going to be in a panic state until either the sore goes away or a week passes and I can call the doctor again.

Please don't scare yourself by reading information on web sites. You have done the right thing by going to your doctor and I am sure if it was anything to be worried about the doctor would have referred you to a consultant.

What you are feeling is only natural we all think the worst, try to relax and give it a week, if you are still not happy after you next visit to the doctor then get a second opinion.

Lets us know how you get on.

Hello BrenDiSch

You have done the right thing and seen your doctor. It is probably a viral ulcer. They hurt but resolve in about 14 days. So use the oral pain gel to take away the pain and avoid spicy, hot or hard foods. See your doctor again if it doesn't get better.

Let us know how you get on.

Best wishes
Vinod