It is a condition that manifests itself with a swelling in the neck. It occurs due to the deficiency of some substances that the body needs or changes in the functioning of the thyroid gland. In addition to swelling, symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing and breathing may also occur. Thyroid goiter treatment options can be done with various treatments depending on the source of the condition.
Causes of Thyroid Goiter
Thyroid goiter is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland becomes enlarged and can develop for various reasons. Goiter is not a disease in itself, but a symptom that can occur due to many different thyroid disorders. Dysfunction or enlargement of the thyroid gland is one of the most common causes of goiter.
Iodine deficiency, is the most common cause of goiter worldwide. Iodine is a mineral necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. When the diet does not provide enough iodine, the thyroid gland may enlarge to compensate. This condition is especially common in people living in iodine-poor areas. For this reason, in some countries, iodine is added to table salt to prevent iodine deficiency.
Another reason is Hashimoto's thyroiditis are autoimmune diseases such as. In this disease, the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and dysfunction.
Graves' disease is another autoimmune cause of goiter. This disease causes the thyroid gland to work excessively. It can result in the thyroid gland becoming enlarged due to excessive hormone production.
In some cases, the thyroid gland nodules or tumors can also cause goiter. Nodules are usually benign, but in rare cases they can be cancerous.
Other causes include genetic predisposition, certain medications, infections of the thyroid gland, and radiation. Treatment varies depending on the cause of the goiter. Hormone replacement therapy, iodine supplements, or surgery may often be necessary.
Thyroid Goiter Symptoms
Thyroid goiter is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland grows. Symptoms may vary from person to person and depending on the cause of the goiter. It may not usually show symptoms in the early stages. However, as growth progresses, physical and hormonal effects become more apparent.
One of the most common symptoms swelling in the neck or a feeling of mass. As the thyroid gland enlarges, a swelling may be noticed in the lower part of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. This swelling may sometimes be symmetrical, and sometimes it may expand more to one side.
Goiter may be associated with dysfunction of the thyroid gland. In this case, symptoms occur due to underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones. For example, hypothyroidism In this case, weakness, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, constipation and dry skin may occur. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism If present, symptoms such as palpitations, weight loss, irritability, excessive sweating and hot flushes are experienced.
Depending on the size of the goiter difficulty breathing and swallowing It can also be seen. A large goiter puts pressure on the esophagus or trachea. This can cause difficulty swallowing or a feeling of being stuck in the throat. Similarly, it can put pressure on the trachea and cause difficulty breathing.
Other possible symptoms include: hoarseness The growing goiter can put pressure on the vocal cords, causing the voice to become hoarse or coarser. Also, cough or a constant feeling of discomfort in the throat may also be among the symptoms of goiter.
The symptoms of goiter may not always be obvious. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor, especially if you notice a swelling in the neck. Early diagnosis and treatment play a critical role in preventing complications.
Thyroid Goiter Treatment
Treatment for thyroid goiter varies depending on the size of the goiter, symptoms, and underlying cause. Treatment may sometimes involve just monitoring and follow-up. However, more severe cases may require medication or surgery.
One of the most common causes of goiter is iodine deficiency In this case, treatment is done with iodine supplements. Iodine-containing salt or iodine-rich food helps to return thyroid hormones to normal levels and shrink the goiter. However, excessive iodine supplements can also cause thyroid problems, so they should be done under the supervision of a doctor.
Hyperthyroidism In this case, antithyroid drugs are used to reduce excessive hormone production. These drugs regulate the function of the thyroid gland and can stop the growth of the goiter. Radioactive iodine treatment may also be preferred in some cases. This method helps to destroy excess cells in the thyroid gland and shrink the gland.
In cases of large goiter surgical intervention may be necessary. Thyroidectomy With this surgery, called thyroidectomy, part or all of the thyroid gland can be removed. Surgical treatment is also preferred when there is suspicion of cancer in the thyroid gland.
When deciding on treatment, the size of the goiter, thyroid functions and the patient's general health are taken into account. Regular doctor check-ups play an important role in the treatment process. It helps prevent complications.
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