Overview
Many people have thyroid nodules without knowing it. Most are harmless, but each nodule should be assessed to rule out cancer and check thyroid function.
Symptoms
- A lump in the front of the neck
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of pressure with large nodules
- Hoarseness
- Weight loss, palpitations or tremor if the nodule makes excess hormone
- Often no symptoms
Causes and risk factors
They are more common in women, with older age, iodine deficiency, a family history and past radiation exposure.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses thyroid blood tests, a neck ultrasound and, for suspicious nodules, a fine needle aspiration biopsy. A thyroid scan may be used for overactive nodules.
Treatment
Treatment includes monitoring with ultrasound, radioactive iodine or medicines for overactive nodules, and surgery for large, suspicious or cancerous nodules.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for any neck lump. Seek prompt care if a lump grows quickly or causes difficulty breathing or swallowing.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
