Growths in the thyroid gland, which is situated at the front of the neck, are known as thyroid nodules. Thyroid hormone, which is released by the thyroid gland, controls a number of bodily processes, including metabolism.
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Adult thyroid nodules are quite frequent; over 70% of Americans over 70 will have had at least one. While most nodules are benign (noncancerous), some may be malignant. Although thyroid nodules in children and teenagers are less prevalent, they are more likely to be malignant (cancerous) if they do occur.
Thyroid nodules come in several forms:
Colloid nodules are thyroid cell accumulations that are benign.
Additionally benign are follicular adenomas.
Fluid-filled balloon-like growths inside your thyroid gland are called thyroid cysts. Almost rare do they cause cancer.
Thyroid tumors can resemble any other kind of thyroid nodule in appearance. A biopsy and, occasionally, an ultrasound are necessary to identify whether a nodule is cancerous.
Certain nodules have the potential to impact the thyroid gland’s hormone production, leading to symptoms of either hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland).
Signs of Thyroid Nodules
Until a nodule becomes big enough to impact nearby tissues and organs or becomes noticeable on the neck, many of them do not produce symptoms. The following symptoms might exist depending on the kind and source of the nodule:
Having trouble swallowing
Changes in voice, such as hoarseness
a sore throat
a palpable or visible swelling in the neck (goiter)
Unexpectedly quick weight loss
erratic or rapid heartbeat
Anxiety or nerves
Intolerance for cold
Weary
desiccated skin
Gaining weight
swelling of the face (edema)
Diagnosis of thyroid nodules
Physical examination or palpation
CT scan
neck ultrasonography
Thyroid hormone levels in the blood can be determined using blood testing.
Nodule biopsy: a little sample of the nodule is taken, and the cells are examined under a microscope. The best method for figuring out if a nodule is malignant or benign is this one.
When to Consult a Physician About a Thyroid Nodule
See your healthcare practitioner if any of the aforementioned symptoms apply to you or your kid.
Medication for Thyroid Nodules
The kind and cause of the nodule will determine the course of treatment. Sometimes all that is required is observation, which includes attentive waiting and consistent follow-up. Surgery and medication can also be required. Thyroid nodule size can also be decreased nonsurgically with radiofrequency ablation (RFA).