Thyroid cancer, a condition that often develops silently, is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide — especially among women. While it’s treatable when caught early, many people ignore the early warning signs, mistaking them for minor, everyday issues.

Here are 7 early body changes that may signal thyroid cancer — with the first 3 so common that most people overlook them:

1. Fatigue that doesn’t go away

Feeling tired after a long day is normal — but if you’re constantly exhausted even after resting well, your thyroid could be involved. When the thyroid is affected, your body’s metabolism and energy levels can shift dramatically.

2. Sudden weight changes

Unexplained weight gain or loss, without any major diet or lifestyle change, may be linked to thyroid hormone imbalances. Even mild shifts could be a red flag.

3. Persistent hoarseness or voice changes

A hoarse voice that lingers for weeks, especially if you're not sick, might signal a problem with your thyroid gland, which sits near your vocal cords. This is one of the most overlooked symptoms.

4. A lump or swelling in the neck

This is a classic symptom of thyroid issues — including cancer. It might appear as a painless lump near the Adam’s apple or feel like tightness in the throat.

5. Difficulty swallowing or breathing

As a tumor grows, it can press on your esophagus or windpipe, making it hard to breathe or swallow normally.

6. Neck or throat pain

Though not always present, discomfort in the neck or front of the throat that doesn’t go away should not be ignored — especially if it's one-sided.

7. Enlarged lymph nodes

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can be a sign that thyroid cancer has begun to spread. If the swelling lasts more than a couple of weeks, seek medical advice.