it could just be you, your vocal cords may need some attention via surgery? It could be some disease ..... go to a dr and see what he/she says then investigate from there!
Dry mouth from anxiety can cause this. When I'm anxious, I can sound like I have a bit of laryngitis from dry mouth/ throat. A peppermint candy might help but PLEASE stop smoking!
First of all you need to stop smoking.
Make sure that you drink plenty of fluids, especially water, 2-3 litres per day is recommended. The voice box (larynx) needs to be rested and lubricated. Misuse of the voice, either by shouting and exposure to irritants (in your case, smoking) can damage the vocal chords.
Acid reflux can also cause damage to the vocal chords.
You may have nodules on the chords, or have mucus coating them and that will cause crackling, hoarseness, etc.
I would suggest that you make an appointment with your doctor to examine your throat and perhaps send you to an Ears Nose and Throat specialist to examine your throat and larynx to rule out any serious problems.
You can use throat lozenges to help with the soreness. And do steam inhalations using vick or olbas oil to loosen any catarrhal problems.
Best wishes.