What Are Thyroid Nodules?
A thyroid nodule is a small lump that develops on the thyroid gland. While most of these lumps do not pose any significant health risks, in some cases, the nodules may grow larger and begin to press against the windpipes. Cancer is present in fewer than 5% of all thyroid nodules. However, patients should still have nodules evaluated. Though not all nodules are noticeable, there are a few symptoms that may warrant a doctor’s appointment.
1. Trouble swallowing
One of the most common signs of a lump is difficulty swallowing. This occurs when the nodule has grown larger. Nodules can also grow in clusters, meaning that there may be more than one pressing against the neck.
2. A raspy voice
Growths on the thyroid can also cause an inexplicably raspy or hoarse voice. Some people may not notice this change immediately. As these lumps grow, however, some patients can experience difficulty breathing.
3. Neck pain
Thyroid nodules can cause neck pain. Rather, these growths may cause discomfort at the base of the throat. This is where the thyroid gland is located, just under the Adam’s apple. This gland produces hormones that help to regulate digestion, body temperature, and other essential functions.
4. Extra anxiety
In some cases, thyroid nodules can produce excess hormones, leading to symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Some of these symptoms manifest as extra anxiousness, such as a fluttering or fast-beating heart rate, nervousness, or difficulty sleeping. Hyperthyroidism can also cause unexplained weight loss.
When to seek help
Patients who are experiencing any of these symptoms should make an appointment with a healthcare provider. The primary goal of a neck mass biopsy is to make sure that the growth is not malignant. The doctor will also want to make sure that the thyroid is functioning properly. Doctors may recommend ultrasonography or a thyroid scan to assess the thyroid and nodules.
When do I need a biopsy?
In the majority of cases, healthcare providers use a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to make sure the growth is benign. During this procedure, the doctor uses a small needle to suction out a few cells for evaluation. If the growth is benign, there may not be a need to undergo surgery to remove the nodule. In some cases, patients may get medications to regulate the hormones produced by the thyroid. Patients who are experiencing any symptoms of a nodule should make an appointment with a healthcare provider.
Recent Posts
Tired Of Your Ankles Giving Out? Schedule Outpatient Ankle Stabilization
A previous ankle sprain or injury can cause the joint to repeatedly give way. Outpatient ankle stabilization surgery may be the answer.
Permanent Allergies: When To Say Yes To Nasal & Sinus Surgery
Can an allergy become permanent? Chronic nasal and sinus inflammation can lead to permanent allergies, which may require surgery.
How Long Do I Need To Go To Physical Therapy After My ACL Surgery?
After ACL surgery, physical therapy is necessary to achieve full recovery. Most patients require 6-9 months of PT to strengthen the knee.
Ice Cream? What To Expect For Your Tonsillectomy Or Adenoidectomy
A tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy removes small glands to prevent future infections. ice Ice cream can help patients during recovery.
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
