Apparently, the thyroid gland is situated in front of the trachea and it should not be conspicuous. However, in the case of goiter (goitre in the UK), there is a visible enlargement of the thyroid gland. Depending on the severity, the swelling of the gland actually varies. Find out more about goitre causes, signs and symptoms, and treatment by reading the rest of the article below.

Goiter Causes

Goiters have several possible causes and some of them include:

• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
• Iodine deficiency
• Thyroid cancer

Other risk factors which predispose one to its occurrence are:

• Women
• Increasing age (such as in the case of toxic multinodular goiter)
• Pregnancy
• Autoimmune disorders
• Certain medication use
• Smoking
• Exposure to toxins

Signs and Symptoms of Goiter

While swelling of the gland in the neck area is the main symptom of the condition, there are sufferers who are asymptomatic. However, the following may manifest on the patient:

• The base of the neck where swelling is seen may be smooth to touch (diffuse small goiter)
• The gland is lumpy (nodular goiter)
• Unusual coughing or constant clearing of throat
• Voice hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Tightness in the throat area
• Difficulty breathing

When such symptoms are felt, it is important that you seek medical attention accordingly and undergo physical examination and other lab tests such as hormone testing, thyroid scan, and antibody test to further diagnose the problem.

How to Treat Goiter

Treatment method on how to cure the condition is actually dependent on many factors as well as the type of thyroid problem that is experienced. For instance, people who suffer from hypothyroidism may be treated via synthetic hormones to be able to supply what is lacking.

Patients who suffer from hyperthyroidism may be given meds like thionamides which can help decrease the level of hormones. Other treatment methods include:

• Iodine supplementation
• Surgery/ Operation
• Radioactive iodine

Many look for prevention tips for goiter or nodules. While there isn’t any single prevention which can help get rid of its incidence, simple measures such as getting enough iodine or reducing too much consumption of it may definitely help.

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