What were your early symptoms before diagnosed with a Parotid Tumor?

Hello, I'm currently experiencing some symptoms and have fallen down the medical rabbit hole. All research and information and AI points toward a Parotid Glad Tumor. I have cut out the middle man and have made an appt. with an ENT/Otolaryngologist at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix/Scottsdale. My symptoms started about 10 years ago but were quite minor. I found a small pea size lump beneath and slightly behind the corner/angle of my jaw on my left side. It was not visible but I could feel it if I really felt for it. I didn't think much of it at the time. Over the years I could feel it getting slightly larger but I'm not one to run to the doctor every time I see or feel something or get sick. About 5 years ago the lump became visible if I turned my head up and to the right and if I stretched my neck/jaw. It was still fairly small. About 2 years ago, I turned my neck a certain way and felt a sharp pain in the same area, like I pinched something. I started monitoring the lump. It has gotten quite a bit larger now, maybe quarter size from the outside view. It is quite painful if pressed on. It does not seem to move much at all. I will admit, finances have had some part in the decision to not go to a doctor sooner along with not wanting to hear bad news. However, I am now feeling a sense of fullness in the area between my ear and corner of my jaw and I now have tinnitus in my left ear. I also feel like something is in my throat or just doesn't feel right in my throat (pressure) on the same left side. It's not painful and does not affect my swallowing. My appointment is on Jan. 6th. Preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. Has anyone else had these same symptoms or can anyone share their experience and symptoms pre-diagnosis. Thank you in advance for any insight.