Health experts have raised the alarm over a red flag symptom of a potentially deadly condition that could appear during a conversation. A persistent hoarse or croaky voice could be an indicator of cancer.
There are more than 200 types of cancer that can afflict the body. The disease occurs when abnormal cells grow and divide, which can spread to and damage healthy tissues and organs.
Early detection is critical for any illness, as identifying signs promptly can lead to earlier treatment and a chance at successful recovery. However, given the extensive range of cancer variations, there are a large number of potential symptoms to look for.
Cancer Research UK includes a hoarse or croaky voice among the key general signs of cancer to be vigilant about. Nevertheless, the organisation clarifies that a raspy voice is more commonly associated with less serious conditions, such as colds, unless it lingers for an extended period.
It says: “Having a croaky voice or feeling hoarse can be common with colds.” But if this symptom persists, it warrants medical attention, and “a croaky or hoarse voice that hasn’t gone away should be checked out.”
Prolonged hoarseness is one of the primary symptoms of laryngeal cancer, originating in the voice box. According to Cancer Research UK, experiencing a hoarse voice for over three weeks is among the most frequent signals of laryngeal cancer.
Other symptoms to watch for include pains or difficulty when swallowing, long-lasting shortness of breath or coughing, the presence of a lump or swelling in the throat or neck area, and unexplained weight loss.
The charity emphasises the importance of vigilance regarding certain symptoms, saying: “If you have any of these symptoms, you must get them checked by your GP. But remember, they can all be caused by other conditions.”
Lung cancer, a prevalent type of cancer in the UK, may also manifest with a hoarse voice, which the NHS notes as a sign that the disease could be advancing. The health service explains: “There are usually no signs or symptoms of lung cancer in the early stages. Symptoms develop as the condition progresses.”
Among the symptoms associated with lung cancer are:
- Swelling of your face or neck
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- Persistent tiredness or lack of energy
- Changes in the appearance of your fingers, such as becoming more curved or their ends becoming larger (this is known as finger clubbing)
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain when swallowing
- A cough that does not go away after three weeks
- An ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- Persistent chest or shoulder pain
- Persistent breathlessness
- A long-standing cough that gets worse
- Chest infections that keep coming back.
However, it is crucial to note that a hoarse voice can result from various other factors, including laryngitis, common colds, vocal strain, smoking, acid reflux, allergies, thyroid issues, and physical injuries.