Thyroid lumps are not always a cause for concern, but it’s definitely worth getting them checked out by your doctor. Jonathan Hughes is an experienced ENT expert based near Watford and Enfield, who can diagnose your thyroid lump and carry out the appropriate action.
Obviously you may be feeling concerned if you find a lump anywhere on your body and it’s worth pointing out that most lumps are harmless, but in order to help answer your questions about thyroid lumps, we’ve put together this list of the most commonly asked queries.
What is a thyroid lump?
Doctors will refer to your thyroid lump as a thyroid nodule. It’s a solid or fluid filled lump that develops in the thyroid gland, towards the front of you neck. You may simply have one single nodule, or a cluster of nodules may develop together.
These types of lumps are very common and it’s rare that they’re cancerous. However, they can sometimes cause you other problems. Some nodules can create too much thyroid hormone and when this happens the gland doesn’t function as well as it should.
What causes thyroid nodules to grow?
You’re more likely to have a thyroid lump, the older you get. Hereditary factors can cause them, so if somebody in your family has had one, it’s more likely you’ll have one. It’s also believed that being exposed to radiation increases the risk of you gaining a thyroid lump.
How to check for thyroid lumps
You’ll probably only be able to feel your thyroid lump if it’s quite large. It may feel like a swelling in the neck. Symptoms of thyroid lumps are throat pain, trouble swallowing, or even breathing, increased heart rate and sweating, or weight loss. The symptoms are similar to those of hyperthyroidism, which means your thyroid lump is probably producing too much thyroid hormone. A frequent cough unrelated to a cold or a hoarse voice are also indicators of a problem. You should inform a doctor as a matter of priority if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
How you can find out of your thyroid lump is potentially harmful to your health?
When you visit Jonathan Hughes for your consultation a physical examination will take place and a series of tests will be performed. You may need a CT scan or an ultrasound.
It may be necessary to perform a biopsy, which is when a piece of thyroid tissue will be removed during a simple procedure. this is to check for cancer cells.
‘How to heal thyroid nodules’
Once it has been established that your thyroid lump is not cancerous, your doctor will keep a close eye on it. If it becomes bigger, or begins to obstruct your breathing it will have to be removed via a surgical procedure.
If you’d like to find out more about thyroid lump treatment in Harley Street and London, please get in touch with Jonathan Hughes, who will be advise you of how best to proceed.