What Are Thyroid Nodules?

Thyroid nodules are lumps located within the thyroid. Your thyroid is a small gland located below the Adam’s apple at the bottom of the neck. Most thyroid nodules are not cancerous and will not produce display any symptoms. There are, however, a small percentage of thyroid nodules that are cancerous.

The only way to discover the existence of a thyroid nodule within your thyroid is through a medical examination. Otherwise, it would not be possible for a patient to detect the nodule. In some situation, thyroid nodules can get large enough to apply pressure on your windpipe. If this happens, it can become rather difficult to swallow anything.

There are different types of nodules that may develop and each type will require a different options.

Symtoms Of Thyroid Nodules

Most thyroid nodules do not produce noticeable signs or symptoms. On occasion, some nodules can become large enough to be felt. Some of these nodules can even grow to the point that it can manifest as a large swelling at the base of the neck.

You may notice then while putting on make up or shaving. Most people do not usually feel around the neck for nodules unless they have become aware of what they are through a close friend or family member with a history of thyroid cancer or a current condition of the cancer.

There are some cases where thyroid nodules produce an excess of thyroxine. Thyroxine is a hormone that is usually secreted from the thyroid gland. An excess in thyroxine can create several problems such as unexplained weight loss, panic or rapid and/or irregular heartbeats.

As mentioned above, thyroid nodules are rarely malignant or cancerous. A thyroid nodule can become cancerous if is noticeably growing large or feels hard. Another sign of a cancerous nodule can include hoarseness or if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. The lymph nodes beneath your jaw can also become enlarged in cases where nodules have become malignant.