Main symptoms of laryngeal cancer
Symptoms of laryngeal cancer vary depending on where in the voice box (larynx) the cancer is.
The most common symptoms include:
- a hoarse voice or change in your voice that does not go away
- a lump or swelling in your neck
- pain when swallowing or difficulty swallowing
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Other less common symptoms include:
- an earache that does not go away
- bad breath
- losing weight without trying
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- you have a hoarse voice or change in your voice that does not go away
- you have a lump or swelling in your throat – including a lump that has been checked before but is getting bigger
- pain or difficulty swallowing
Urgent advice: Contact NHS 111 if:
- you have difficulty breathing – you may be more short of breath than usual
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if:
- you have severe difficulty breathing – you're gasping, choking or not able to get words out
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Important
These symptoms are very common and can be caused by other conditions.
Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have laryngeal cancer, but it's important to get checked by a GP.
If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it's easier to treat.
What happens at the GP appointment
The GP may look inside your mouth and feel your neck. They may also listen to your chest and tummy to check if they sound normal. They may ask if anyone in your family has had laryngeal cancer.
They might arrange for you to have a blood test or a chest X-ray.
Referral to a specialist
The GP may refer you straight to the ear, nose and throat (ENT) department of your local hospital for more tests.
This may be an urgent referral if the GP thinks you have symptoms that could be cancer. This does not definitely mean you have cancer.