Goiters and thyroid disease are generally more common after the age of In most cases, the only symptom of a goiter is a swelling in the neck. The swelling may be large enough to feel with the hand. The degree of swelling and the severity of symptoms produced by the goiter depend on the individual. The most common cause of goiters outside the United States is a lack of iodine in the diet. The thyroid needs iodine to create thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism.
A lack of iodine is uncommon in the U. As iodine is less commonly found in plants, vegan diets may lack sufficient iodine. This is less of a problem for vegans who live in countries where manufacturers add iodine to salt. Hypothyroidism is the result of an underactive thyroid gland. When the gland produces too little thyroid hormone, it is stimulated to produce more, leading to swelling. Hyperthyroidism , or an overactive thyroid gland, is another cause of goiters. In people with this condition, the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone.
People over the age of 40 are at greater risk of goiters, as are people with a family history of the condition. The type of goiter will dictate how it is treated and the possible symptoms.
There are several main types of goiters:. Most simple goiters are preventable through adequate intake of iodine, which is added to table salt in many countries.
A range of iodine supplements are also available in health stores. Hyperthyroidism overactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism underactive thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism means the thyroid gland is overactive. The gland responds by producing an excessive amount of hormones. The goitre is caused by this massive overstimulation.
Some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism include a racing and irregular heart, restlessness, unexplained weight loss, heat intolerance and diarrhoea. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland is underactive. The pituitary gland keeps sending its chemical messages, instructing the thyroid to produce its hormones. The thyroid gland enlarges as it attempts to comply. Some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism include low energy, depression, cold intolerance and constipation.
Thyroid nodules Thyroid nodules are lumps that grow on the gland. Nodules are classified into two groups: Hot or warm - these nodules account for around 15 per cent of cases, and can cause hyperthyroidism. The cancer risk is low. Cold - these nodules account for around 85 per cent of cases. Around 20 per cent of these are cancerous.
Thyroid cancer Sometimes, the thyroid gland is enlarged because of cancer. Anyone can develop thyroid cancer, regardless of age or gender. The incidence rates are very low and the cure rate is very good.
As leaders in scarless neck surgery and radiofrequency ablation RFA for thyroid nodules, our experts work with you to customize a treatment plan to help you feel your best. Health Home Conditions and Diseases.
Is a goiter dangerous? Goiters are relatively common. A goiter is typically not dangerous, unless the underlying cause of thyroid enlargement is a thyroid cancer. It is important to identify the cause of the goiter to rule out cancer. In most cases, the swelling is small and does not cause any symptoms. See your GP if you think you have a goitre. They'll examine your neck to see whether your thyroid gland is swollen. The GP may also request a thyroid function test to see how well your thyroid gland is working.
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