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
Modern Joint Replacement: Why Outpatient Surgery Is Now The Standard
Joint replacement turns modern. With outpatient surgery, patients get improved joint health and a host of recovery benefits.
Navigating Sinus Surgery: Relief From Chronic Congestion & Pain
Occasional sinus discomfort happens, but when it’s persistent, you might need to consider surgery for relief.
The Power Of Minimally Invasive Orthopedics: Faster Healing, Smaller Scars
Minimally invasive orthopedic surgeries let you get back to regular life sooner and with minimal scarring.
4 Top Benefits Of Choosing An Outpatient Surgery Center
An outpatient surgery center helps with a wide range of surgeries. Learn the 4 benefits of choosing this center versus a hospital.
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“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.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“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.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“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 ”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“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.”
“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!”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“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.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“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 ”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
Recent Posts
Modern Joint Replacement: Why Outpatient Surgery Is Now The Standard
Joint replacement turns modern. With outpatient surgery, patients get improved joint health and a host of recovery benefits.
Navigating Sinus Surgery: Relief From Chronic Congestion & Pain
Occasional sinus discomfort happens, but when it’s persistent, you might need to consider surgery for relief.
The Power Of Minimally Invasive Orthopedics: Faster Healing, Smaller Scars
Minimally invasive orthopedic surgeries let you get back to regular life sooner and with minimal scarring.
4 Top Benefits Of Choosing An Outpatient Surgery Center
An outpatient surgery center helps with a wide range of surgeries. Learn the 4 benefits of choosing this center versus a hospital.
