Goiter Symptoms: Get to Know Them

Goiter or Thyroid enlargement, is a condition that causes an increase in the size of the thyroid gland and may affect its function. This condition is common in women although it can affect anyone, and in the following article, we will explain the symptoms in detail.

General Symptoms of Goiter 

Goiter doesn't cause symptoms in everyone. In some cases, the patient may not exhibit any symptoms at all. However, when present, the main symptom is the appearance of a mass or swelling in the front of the neck.

The swelling can range from a small lump (which may only be detected during routine medical examination or imaging for another condition) to a large swelling or generalized enlargement on one side or both sides of the neck.

Additionally, patients with goiter may experience the following symptoms:

1. Feeling pressure on the windpipe or esophagus.
2. Difficulty swallowing and feeling like food is stuck in the throat.
3. Voice hoarseness and changes.
4. Swollen neck veins.
5. Coughing.
6. Dizziness when raising the arm above the head.
7. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially at night.
8. Discomfort when wearing ties or collared clothing.

Detailed Symptoms of Goiter 

Patients may experience a variety of symptoms depending on how quickly the goiter grows and whether it affects thyroid function or not.

If the thyroid gland enlarges and produces an excessive amount of hormone, it is referred to as toxic goiter. If the thyroid enlarges but its function is unaffected, meaning thyroid hormone levels do not change (neither increase nor decrease), it is referred to as non-toxic goiter.

Here are explanations for symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, which may accompany symptoms of goiter if the enlargement affects thyroid function:

• Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Some individuals with goiter may also experience hyperthyroidism, characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Sweating.
2. Diarrhea.
3. Nausea.
4. Hand tremors.
5. Weight loss despite increased appetite.
6. Rapid heartbeat (Tachycardia).
7. Muscle weakness.
8. High blood pressure.
9. Irritability and nervousness.
10. Increased sensitivity to heat.

Children with hyperthyroidism may experience behavior changes, accelerated bone growth, and rapid height increase.

• Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Some individuals with goiter may experience Hypothyroidism, characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Weight gain.
2. Constipation.
3. Fatigue.
4. Dry skin.
5. Depression.
6. Low heart rate.
7. Increased sensitivity to cold.
8. Tingling and numbness in the hands.
9. Memory and concentration problems.
10. Irregular periods.

How is Goiter Diagnosed?

Goiter is usually detected visually or manually during a clinical examination based on symptoms presented by the patient. However, further tests may be requested to confirm the diagnosis, such as:

• Blood Tests

These tests help detect thyroid hormone and pituitary gland hormone levels. In cases of hyperthyroidism, thyroid hormone levels will be elevated, while thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), the hormone secreted by the pituitary gland to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce its hormones, will be low, and vice versa in cases of hypothyroidism.

You can undergo these blood tests, such as a thyroid test package or thyroid-stimulating hormone test, offered by Blazma and do not require fasting or other conditions.

• Imaging Tests

The doctor may request a neck ultrasound to detect the size of the thyroid gland and determine the extent of enlargement. Subsequently, a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be requested.

• A Thyroid Scan

This test involves taking a radioactive iodine pill and imaging the thyroid gland after a few hours. This test shows the size and condition of the thyroid gland or excessive activity in certain parts or the entire gland.

• Biopsy

During this procedure, ultrasound is used to guide a needle into the thyroid gland to obtain a sample of tissue or fluid for examination to confirm or rule out thyroid cancer.