A 'CROAKY voice' that persists for longer than three weeks could be a sign of a deadly cancer.
It's one of several symptoms that can emerge when you have cancer of the voice box, otherwise known as laryngeal cancer.
Head and neck cancers are responsible for over 4,000 deaths a year in the UK.
And there are over 12,000 cases a year, so it's important to know the signs of the disease.
Laryngeal cancer, which develops in the voice box, is a deadly cancer that affects the neck.
As with all types of cancer, the earlier it's spotted, the more likely treatment will effective.
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So if you notice any worrying symptoms, it's important to see your GP as soon as possible.
In the event of an emergency, always call 999.
The NHS have said there are six other key symptoms of laryngeal cancer to look out for:
- pain when swallowing or difficulty swallowing
- a lump or swelling in your neck
- a long-lasting cough or breathlessness
- a persistent sore throat or earache
- a high-pitched wheezing noise when you breathe
- in severe cases, difficulty breathing
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Other signs also include: bad breath, unintentional weight loss, or fatigue (extreme tiredness).
When to see your doctor
You should see your doctor if you:
- have a hoarse voice for more than 3 weeks
- have lost 4 to 5 kg (10lbs) or more in a short time and you are not dieting
- are short of breath or have a cough that doesn't go away, or your breathing becomes noisy (stridor)
- have pain or difficulty swallowing
- have any other symptoms that are unusual for you or that don't go away
Treatment options
The main treatments for laryngeal cancer are radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy and targeted cancer medicines.
Radiotherapy can be used to removed cancerous cells if the cancer is caught early enough.
If the cancer is more advanced surgery to remove part or all of the larynx, along with radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be used.
If you have part of your larynx removed you won't be able to speak or breathe like you usually do.
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