Thyroid Nodules 

It is common for people to develop thyroid nodules and, in most cases, these nodules are not cancerous. As soon as you notice thyroid lumps in the neck area, it is important to have the nodules evaluated by a doctor.

Often these abnormal thyroid growths are located at the edge of the thyroid gland so they can be felt as a lump in the throat. When they are large or when they occur in very thin individuals, they can even sometimes be seen as a lump in the front of the neck.

Sometimes a thyroid nodule presents as a fluid-filled cavity (called a thyroid cyst). Often, solid components are mixed with the fluid. Thyroid cysts most commonly result from degenerating thyroid adenomas, which are benign, but they occasionally contain malignant solid components.

Thyroid nodules symptoms

You may notice additional thyroid symptoms including: 

• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Palpitations
• Difficulty swallowing
• Pressure or pain in the neck 
• Hoarse voice

It is possible to have a lump on the thyroid gland without noticing any obvious symptoms. Dysfunction may not occur until the thyroid becomes further inflamed.

Goitre

The term “goitre” is often used to describe an enlarged thyroid. A goitre may be large enough to see with the naked eye, or a specialist may need to take an ultrasound or CT scan in order to detect a goitre. As mentioned, most thyroid nodules are benign. However, since a small percentage are found to be cancerous, it is important to get an immediate diagnosis just to be sure. Even if this lump in the thyroid is not found to be cancerous, you will want to alleviate the symptoms you are experiencing or prevent associated symptoms from beginning.

Thyroid function

Some people with thyroid lumps in the neck cycle between the symptoms of hyperthyroid and hypothyroid disorders. Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid glands produce too much thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid glands produce too little thyroid hormone. A healthy thyroid gland will be able to regulate the amount of hormones it produces, which is important for metabolism control.

When hormone produce is thrown off balance due to enlarged thyroid nodules, many undesirable symptoms can occur over time. An ear nose and throat doctor assists patients in restoring that balance so that they can live a healthy, comfortable life. This may require thyroid surgery and/or medications.

If you have any questions about thyroid nodules symptoms, you should speak to your local doctor, who will arrange to contact your thyroid surgeon