General Information About Goiter
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the abnormal enlargement of the butterfly-shaped thyroid gland located in the front of our neck, in front of the windpipe, sometimes becoming large enough to be noticed from the outside.
The most common cause worldwide is an 'Iodine' deficiency in the diet. The thyroid gland, unable to get iodine, works harder to produce hormones and enlarges. Additionally, cystic nodules in the thyroid gland, genetic predisposition, and autoimmune diseases (Hashimoto's/Graves') also cause goiters.
Small goiters generally do not show any symptoms. However, if the gland grows very large; visible swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, a feeling of pressure/choking while breathing or sleeping, and a deepening of the voice may occur.
Goiter is not a disease but a physiological finding. Even if the thyroid gland reaches massive proportions, it may be producing hormones at completely normal levels (Euthyroid Goiter). Alternatively, the gland might secrete excessive hormones as it grows (Toxic Goiter/Hyperthyroidism).
After a neck examination, Thyroid Ultrasonography is performed to measure the size of the gland and check for the presence of nodules. TSH and thyroid hormones (T3, T4) levels in the blood are examined.
If the hormone levels are normal and the enlarged gland is not pressing on surrounding organs (like the windpipe), it is simply monitored periodically. If there is a hormone abnormality, medical treatment is given. If it reaches massive sizes and causes pressure, or if there is a suspicion of cancer in the nodules, it is surgically removed (Thyroidectomy).
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
