After revealing earlier today that he has been diagnosed with cancer, broadcaster Jamie Theakston has thanked his fans for alerting him to a predominantly overlooked symptom.
The Heart Radio frontman - who presents the station's Breakfast Show alongside co-presenter Amanda Holden - took to social media today to share the news that he was now living with stage 1 laryngeal cancer.
During today’s (September 17) live show - from which Theakston was absent - Holden revealed that he'd asked her and replacement host 'JK' (Jamie King) to 'hold the fort' while he's away.
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The Britain's Got Talent judge also issued a heartfelt message for her pal, wishing him a speedy recovery and reassuring their fans that his prognosis is 'very good’.
Theakston, 53, told his online followers earlier this month (1 September) that he'd been to see his doctor, after several fans raised concerns about a change in his voice.
After urging him to see his GP, fans were told that a lesion was subsequently discovered on his vocal chords, which later transpired to be laryngeal cancer.
"Sooo, a few of you listeners have noticed my voice hasn't sounded right these past few weeks," he explained at the time. "I've got you to thank..."
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And speaking on his diagnosis in a new post today, Theakston confirmed his diagnosis, but added that cancer 'doesn't have' him.
"So… I have cancer… but cancer doesn't have me!" he wrote in an Instagram message to his followers. "The prognosis is very positive and I’m hoping to be back with you in October."
He went on: "Until then, I leave you in the mostly capable hands of JK [Jason King] and Amanda [Holden]. Huge thanks to them and all the Global Family who have been unbelievably supportive.
"Be thankful for this day, and when I see you next, I’ll have a great story to tell."
What is laryngeal cancer?
According to the NHS, there are more than 2,000 cases of laryngeal cancer in the UK every year. It's usually more common in those over 60 and in men.
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The NHS also shared a list of symptoms to look out for and that may be linked to larynx cancer.
Just like Theakston, those with laryngeal cancer may experience a change in their voice, with their voice sounding hoarse. This is considered the 'main symptom' of this type of cancer and requires medical attention if it lasts for more than three weeks.
Pain when swallowing or difficulty swallowing are also a sign that you may have laryngeal cancer.
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Doctors also advise to watch out for a lump or swelling in your neck, as well as a long-lasting cough or breathlessness, and/or a persistent sore throat or earache.
You may also want to check with your GP if you hear a high-pitched wheezing noise when you breathe.
In severe cases, the patient may have some difficulty breathing. Other generic symptoms, such as bad breath or unintentional weight loss, and fatigue may be linked to the condition.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Rhianna Benson