An unusual change to your voice should not be ignored – as it could be a lesser known symptom of lung cancer. Doctors say normal signs of the condition do not develop early on and tend to develop as the condition moves forward or progresses. Typical symptoms of
cancer in the lung include a cough that does not go away after three weeks or a long standing a long-standing cough that gets worse. Others include chest infections which keep returning and even coughing up blood. But one of the lesser know symptoms, which should also be paid attention to, is a hoarse voice which is not widely known as a sign of lung cancer, but can signify signs of the disease. Changes in your voice can be triggered by smoking or a vocal cord infection, which can lead to a malignant tumour. 'I'm a TV writer & these Easter sale 4K TV deals aren't to be missed' A hoarse voice is not widely known as a sign of lung cancer ( Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF) It is among a series of ailments which are not widely know and can signal evidence of lung cancer. The NHS says less common symptoms of lung cancer can include: changes in the appearance of your fingers, such as becoming more curved or their ends becoming larger (this is known as finger clubbing) difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain when swallowing wheezing a hoarse voice swelling of your face or neck persistent chest or shoulder pain Changes in your voice can be brought on by smoking or a vocal cord infection ( Image: Getty Images) These are are added to the more well known conditions such as ache or pain when breathing or coughing, persistent breathlessness , tiredness or lack of energy or a loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss. which the NHS consider are more prominet. The Mirror reported earlier that a persistent croaky voice or ongoing hoarseness could be a sign that you have one of the deadliest by death rate cancers and you should immediately see a doctor. Hoarseness is a less-known symptom of lung cancer. It is often caused by an irritation or injury to the vocal cords. In most instances, the problem will go away on its own after a short period. If you are experiencing hoarseness , you will spot a difference in your voice. It may sound raspy, husky, strained, breathy, weak, inconsistent or tired. Smoking can spark an infection and lead to a malignant tumour ( Image: Getty Images) You may also notice you are speaking in a higher or lower pitch than normal. This often makes it difficult to talk. There are many different causes for hoarseness, including swelling of the voice box. This is often caused by a respiratory tract infection, acid reflux. This is where stomach acid or enzymes irritate the throat, a build-up of soft tissue on the vocal cords which is often related to smoking, paralysed vocal cords which can come from an infection or a benign or malignant tumour.