Mum Discovers Rare Cancer After Misinterpreting Snoring

A woman from Newquay, Cornwall, discovered her persistent snoring was a symptom of a rare cancer known as olfactory neuroblastoma. Claire Barbery, 51, initially attributed her condition to a blocked nose caused by frequent Covid testing while working in a care home. However, after using a steroid spray without improvement, she sought medical attention in January 2023.

Claire’s symptoms included a noticeable blockage on one side of her nose and snoring for the first time in her life. She almost cancelled her hospital appointment, believing she would be wasting the NHS’s time. However, following a referral to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, scans and a biopsy confirmed her worst fears: she had a 5cm tumour that had begun to erode the bone at the base of her skull.

Complex Surgery and Recovery

Claire underwent a complex surgical procedure at Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital. The operation, led by consultant surgeon Shahz Ahmed, was documented as part of the Channel 5 series “Surgeons: A Matter of Life or Death.” Mr. Ahmed explained the severity of Claire’s condition, stating, “Untreated, it could have metastasized and spread into the neck and the rest of the body.”

The intricate surgery required the removal of the tumour and Claire’s olfactory bulbs, resulting in the permanent loss of her sense of smell. The procedure posed significant risks, including potential seizures, stroke, or even death, due to the proximity of the brain’s main blood supply. Thankfully, the surgery was successful, and Claire experienced no complications.

Following the operation, she underwent six weeks of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Claire is now regularly monitored by her medical team and is gradually returning to her job. Since completing her treatment, she has enjoyed holidays with her husband, Gary, and is spending more quality time with her daughters, Lowenna, 27, and Keizha, 25.

Raising Awareness

Motivated by her experience, Claire has partnered with the UK charity Get A-Head Charitable Trust to raise awareness about head and neck cancers. She encourages others to seek medical advice for ongoing symptoms, no matter how trivial they may seem. Claire stated, “If you know your body, then you’ve got to push. If there’s something wrong, don’t ignore it.”

Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to one’s body and the need for timely medical intervention. Claire’s message resonates particularly as World Head and Neck Cancer Day approaches, highlighting the significance of early detection and treatment.