Thyroid Goiter

The thyroid gland which is located within our neck provides essential hormones that help to regulate our body's metabolism.  When this gland becomes abnormally enlarged it is known as the condition called goiter.

The thyroid gland can become enlarged due to various different conditions and is typically painless and small to moderate size goiters may not cause any visible signs or symptoms  and often do not require medical treatment.

However, a large goiter can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swallowing and may be treated with medications or a surgical procedure in order to alleviate these symptoms.  

Symptoms of a Goiter 

While small to moderate goiters may not cause any visible signs or symptoms, when the thyroid gland becomes significantly enlarged an individual may experience several uncomfortable symptoms including difficulty breathing or swallowing due to the swelling of the gland putting pressure on the windpipe (trachea) or esophagus.

An individual may also have hoarseness or change in their voice as the swelling of the gland causes a compression on the recurrent laryngeal nerve. A feeling of tightness may also occur in the throat as well as coughing. 

Causes of a Goiter 

There are numerous underlying conditions that can cause the swelling of enlargement of the thyroid gland, however, a goiter is does not always cause the thyroid gland to function abnormally and it will still continue to produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland produces essential thyroid hormones by absorbing and utilizing iodine that we obtain from certain foods.

An iodine deficiency can cause the condition of goiter; however, this is generally not a common problem in developed countries as there is typically a sufficient amount of iodine consumed through foods and table salt.

Hyperthyroidism - overactive thyroid - is the condition in which the thyroid produces too much of the thyroid hormones and can cause the swelling of the thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by several conditions including Grave's disease which is an autoimmune disorder. 

Hypothyroidism - underactive thyroid - can also cause goiter and is the condition in which the thyroid produces too little of the thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism can also be caused by several underlying conditions including Hashimoto's disease which is an autoimmune disorder.

Sometimes nodules or lumps that are solid or filled with fluid can develop on both sides of the thyroid and is the condition called multinodular goiter which also causes the enlargement of the thyroid gland. Solitary thyroid nodules can also cause swelling and are single nodules that develop and affect a portion of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid cancer can also cause goiter, however, thyroid cancer is relatively rare. Pregnant women can also develop a goiter during pregnancy due to the release of certain hormones; however, this is typically a small enlargement and often goes away a short time after giving birth.

Inflammation of the thyroid gland or thyroiditis can occur due to numerous underlying conditions and causes swelling or pain of the thyroid. While many cases of goiter require no medical treatment, if you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms that may be associated with a thyroid condition you should consult with your physician for a proper diagnosis.