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Mother diagnosed with rare cancer after mistaking symptoms for a cold

Claire Barbery, 51, faced a rare cancer diagnosis after experiencing persistent snoring and a blocked nose.

July 27, 2025 at 04:56 PM
blur Mum devastated to discover true cause of snoring after suffering from blocked nose

Claire Barbery, 51, battled with what she thought were minor health issues before learning of her cancer diagnosis.

Mother's health crisis reveals rare cancer following snoring symptoms

Claire Barbery, a 51-year-old mother from Newquay, Cornwall, faced a shocking diagnosis after suffering from a blocked nose. Initially attributing her symptoms to frequent Covid testing at her job in a care home, Claire almost cancelled her appointment with a specialist, believing it unnecessary. After persistent symptoms and further medical evaluation, she was diagnosed with olfactory neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that had already begun to damage bone in her skull. Claire underwent complex surgery to remove the tumor and is now raising awareness about the importance of addressing health concerns.

Key Takeaways

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A blocked nose led to a rare cancer diagnosis.
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Patients often dismiss significant health symptoms.
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Claire's surgery involved critical measures to protect her brain.
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Public awareness of health issues can save lives.
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Ignoring health concerns can have serious consequences.
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Patients should advocate for their health without fear of wasting time.

"I very nearly cancelled that appointment because I didn't want to be wasting NHS time."

Claire emphasizes the importance of addressing health concerns rather than fearing judgment from the healthcare system.

"If you know your body, then you've got to push. If there's something wrong, don't ignore it."

This quote illustrates Claire's message to others about the significance of advocacy for personal health.

"Untreated, it could have metastasized and spread into the neck and the rest of the body."

Mr. Ahmed explains the urgency and seriousness of Claire's medical condition, highlighting the potential consequences of inaction.

"The key worries were operating between the left and the right eye."

This illustrates the risks involved in Claire's surgery and the complexities faced by her surgical team.

Claire’s experience highlights a critical issue in healthcare—patients often overlook symptoms they consider minor or insignificant. Her story serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of delaying medical consultation. If personal health issues go ignored, patients risk serious conditions being overlooked, leading to severe, even life-threatening, outcomes. The reluctance to seek help may stem from concerns about burdening the healthcare system, yet encounters like Claire’s underscore the importance of prioritizing health and recognizing that every concern deserves attention.

Highlights

  • Ignoring health symptoms could cost you your life.
  • Don't let fear of wasting time stop you from seeking help.
  • Every health concern matters, no matter how small it seems.
  • Listen to your body—it could save your life.

Potential Risks of Ignoring Health Issues

Ignoring persistent health symptoms can lead to severe consequences, including late-stage cancers. Claire's case exemplifies the need for timely medical intervention.

Raising awareness might help others seek timely medical advice.

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