There is a common misconception that all thyroid diseases are goiter, and that the thyroid gland is also called goiter. Goiter is the name given to the enlargement of the thyroid gland. Sometimes seen with nodules, this disease usually shows no symptoms in its milder stages. Swelling on one or both sides of the neck is a visible symptom and can be considered the most important finding. Before looking at the symptoms, let’s look at the causes.
The most important cause of goiter is iodine deficiency. Iodine deficiency increases the body’s need for hormones, and goiter can occur. The same is true during pregnancy. Since iodine deficiency is very common in our country, goiter is also a very common problem. On the other hand, other diseases of the thyroid gland, such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid nodules, thyroid inflammation, and thyroid cancers, can also cause goiter.
Goiter Symptoms
Simple goiters usually do not cause symptoms. Large and nodular goiters, however, can cause:
Swelling on one or both sides of the neck,
Shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing,
Enlargement of the veins in the neck,
Pain if there is sudden growth and internal bleeding.
Nodular Goiter (Thyroid Nodules)
Abnormal tissues that form within the thyroid gland are called thyroid nodules or nodular goiter. Nodules should be monitored carefully as they can turn cancerous in 5% of cases. If the nodule continues to grow despite treatment, if there is swelling in the lymph nodes, if there is a deepening of the voice, and if it is a type called a “cold nodule,” then the possibility of cancer should be suspected. The only symptom of nodular goiter is usually swelling in the neck. If there is bleeding inside the nodule, pain may also occur. If it grows, it can cause shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing.
Treatment of Nodular Goiter
Nodular goiter is diagnosed with tests such as biopsy, ultrasound, and scintigraphy. The treatment method is determined according to the results of the biopsy. Surgery may be recommended if cancer is present, if the nodule is larger than 3 cm in diameter, if it is growing rapidly, or if there is swelling in the lymph nodes. For some benign nodules that are not cancerous, medication may be applied. Sometimes, only observation is necessary.
