Symptoms of laryngeal cancer as Jamie Theakston diagnosed - including strange noise

Radio presenter Jamie Theakston has told how a change in his voice led him to getting checked out by a doctor but there are other symptoms to watch for

Radio presenter Jamie Theakston has told how he is fighting laryngeal cancer. The star said he got checked out after his voice changed.

Writing on Instagram two weeks ago he told followers: "Sooo - a few of you listeners have noticed my voice hasn't sounded right these past few weeks - I've got you to thank...got it checked - Doctors found a lesion on my vocal chords which I've had removed this weekend - thanks for all the kind messages - should be back on my feet soon."

He said then he had to rest his voice. Then on Tuesday he gave an update telling fans the operation had discovered the lesion was cancerous. Posting on the social media site he said: "The biopsy has identified this as Stage 1 Laryngeal cancer. So I have cancer but cancer doesn't have me! The prognosis is very positive and I'm hoping to be back with you in October."

According to the NHS there are more than 2,000 new cases of laryngeal cancer each year. The condition is more common in people over the age of 60. It's more common in men than women.

The success in treatment like most cancers depends on how far it has developed before being diagnosed and treated. Most laryngeal cancers are diagnosed at an early stage, which means the outlook is generally better than some other types of cancer.

Overall, about 65 out of every 100 people will live for 5 years or more after diagnosis, and about 55 out of every 100 people will live for 10 years or more. Stopping smoking if you are a smoker after being diagnosed with laryngeal cancer may improve your outlook.

Symptoms of laryngeal cancer

The main symptom of laryngeal cancer is having a hoarse voice for more than 3 weeks. But apart from changes to your voice there are a number of other signs which could signal laryngeal cancer. These include:

• a change in your voice, such as sounding hoarse
• 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

Some people may also experience bad breath, unintentional weight loss. They can also suffer from fatigue (extreme tiredness).

When to see your GP

You should see a GP if you have had a hoarse voice for more than 3 weeks. These symptoms are often caused by less serious conditions, such as laryngitis, but it's a good idea to get them checked out.

If necessary, your GP can refer you to a hospital specialist for further tests to confirm or rule out cancer.

Causes of laryngeal cancer

It's not clear exactly what causes laryngeal cancer. However the risk is increased by:

• smoking tobacco
• regularly drinking large amounts of alcohol
• having family members (such as a parent, brother, sister or child) who have had laryngeal cancer
• having an unhealthy diet low in fruit and vegetables
• exposure to certain chemicals and substances, such as asbestos and coal dust

The NHS says: "By adopting a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding alcohol and tobacco, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing laryngeal cancer."