Do you have an odd growth on your neck or throat? You might have a thyroid nodule, which is an unusually small swell on the thyroid that can cause a variety of symptoms. It is important to understand what a thyroid nodule is, what its symptoms are, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment options are available for it.
What is a Thyroid Nodule?
A thyroid nodule is an abnormal growth on the thyroid gland, located in the lower front of the neck. They can be single or multiple, and most are harmless or non-cancerous. They are most common in women and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
Symptoms of a Thyroid Nodule
The most common symptom of a thyroid nodule is a lump or mass in the neck. Other symptoms may include difficulty swallowing and pain in the neck or throat. Some nodules can cause hormone imbalances, which can lead to weight changes, fatigue, depression, or changes in heart rhythm and rate.
Diagnosis of a Thyroid Nodule
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and check your thyroid with a stethoscope to determine if there is a nodule present. If a nodule is found, they may order other tests such as a thyroid function test, an imaging scan, or a biopsy of the thyroid nodule to determine if there is a malignancy present.
Treating a Thyroid Nodule
Most thyroid nodules do not require treatment and can be monitored by your physician. If a nodule is found to be malignant, then treatment may be necessary. This can include surgery to remove the nodule, and radiation or chemotherapy, depending on the size and type of the cancer.
Thyroid Nodule and Your Health
Thyroid nodules can be alarming, but most of the time, they do not cause any health problems. However, it is important to get them checked by your doctor to make sure that they are not cancerous. If you are diagnosed with a thyroid nodule, your doctor will provide suggested treatment options and monitoring guidelines.
