question: Hi doctor, Just over a week ago, I developed severe swelling and soreness on the left side of my throat, particularly at the base of my tongue. My left ear is also in a lot of pain. Swallowing is extremely difficult and I went to see local urgent care where they prescribed me with Amoxicillin 500 mg and said it was most likely pharyngitis even though I have not had tonsils for many years. My main concern, even though it is a worse case scenario, is esophageal cancer through HPV can occur, as my girlfriend was recently diagnosed with HPV. Again, I know this is the worst case scenario, but since she was diagnosed I really been concerned about HPV-related cancers. From what I read and what I've been told, there are no real tests to check in men for HPV and even though there is the vaccine it is not recommended for men ages 26 to 45 years. I have already been taking Amoxicillin for about four days now and nothing improves. I have also tried taking regular over the counter cough drops and gargling with salt water. This has not helped at all either I have also been told that throat cancer from HPV can usually be spotted unless you have lesions in your oral area. Right now I am at a loss of what I really need to do? Any help or advice would seriously be appreciated. I am also under Amlodipine 5 mg.