Thyroid cancer hardly causes any symptoms in its early stages and is often only noticed as the tumour grows in size.

Sufferers notice a growing lump in the thyroid, which places pressure on the gullet (oesophagus) or windpipe (trachea). This can cause problems eating, breathing or talking. 

If lymph nodes in the neck are affected by a tumour, they are often swollen, firm and difficult to move around.

However, symptoms are different for everyone and can vary in severity from one person to the next. If you are in any doubt whether you might have symptoms of thyroid cancer, you should see your family doctor or physician.