Thyroid nodules are defined as masses that form in the thyroid tissue and can be of different structure and size. Most of them are generally harmless and benign. They are usually visible to the eye, but they cannot be detected until they reach a diameter of 2 cm. They are known to carry a cancer risk of 5% to 10%. Sometimes it can be a disease on its own, and sometimes it can occur due to another disease. They can cause problems such as cancer, causing hyperthyroidism by producing excessive hormones, and pressing on the trachea when they are large.
Contents
What is a Thyroid Nodule?
Thyroid nodule occupies a significant space in the thyroid gland. It is shaped differently than the normal thyroid tissue around it. It can be spherical or oval shaped. In short, it can also be defined as a tissue that should not normally be in the thyroid gland. When a nodule is found here, its name is defined as nodular goiter. Their sizes may vary from person to person. It is also known that it is one of the most common problems in the society.
Those of small size do not give any symptoms. However, those with large sizes can cause hoarseness and thickening of the voice. It can also cause the person to have difficulty swallowing. Since it is likely to carry cancer risk, it should be followed up regularly.
Causes of Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodule is a problem defined as the enlargement of the thyroid gland and the formation of a lump here and is thought to be based on iodine deficiency. The person's eating habits and iodine deficiency in drinking water can be among the causes. It is observed that this problem is more common especially in certain regions of our country. For this reason, the person should pay attention to his/her diet. It is recommended not to interrupt regular controls.
What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Nodules?
Thyroid nodule is one of the most common disorders, it can occur in different sizes in each individual. Since it is of different sizes, its symptoms may vary from person to person. A nodule in the throat may not give any symptoms, especially in people with small sizes. When it is noticed, treatment should be initiated and followed up. Because there is a possibility of cancer.
Thyroid nodules are defined as masses that form in the thyroid tissue and can be of different structure and size. In general, most of them are harmless and benign. They are usually visible to the eye, but they cannot be recognized until they reach a diameter of 2 cm. They are known to carry a cancer risk of 5% to 10%. Sometimes it can be a disease on its own and sometimes it can occur due to another disease. They can cause problems such as cancer, causing hyperthyroidism with excessive hormone production, and pressing on the trachea when they are large.
Symptoms of Thyroid Nodule include the following:
- Sticking sensation in the throat during swallowing
- Feeling of difficulty when breathing
- Voice hoarseness
- Sore throat
- Muffled voice
- Noisy breathing at night due to a feeling of pressure in the esophagus
- Difficulty swallowing due to nodule pressure
- Weight loss due to metabolism acceleration
- Muscle weakness
- Anxious mood
- Heart palpitations
- Disruption of menstrual cycle
- Difficulty swallowing
Thyroid Nodule Diagnosis Methods
Thyroid nodule can be diagnosed with a careful physical examination. In addition, the diagnosis can also be made by ultrasonography method. With the ultrasonography method, it can be understood whether the mass is liquid or solid. The size, borders and blood supply of the nodule can also be checked. All these features are sufficient to determine whether it is benign or malignant. If necessary, a needle biopsy is performed. However, sometimes this biopsy may be insufficient and surgical methods are needed. Some blood tests are also performed. This provides information on how much blood the nodules produce.
Thyroid Nodule Treatment Methods
Thyroid nodule treatment methods vary depending on whether the nodule is benign or malignant. Benign ones are usually followed up. However, if it is benign but causes the patient to feel discomfort and experience some problems, surgical methods can be used. Treatment methods include drug therapy, surgical treatment, radioactive iodine treatments.
