Thyroid Nodules Treatment
WHAT IS THYROID NODULES?
Thyroid nodules are lumps, either solid or fluid-filled, that develop in the throat, at the base of your neck. Most thyroid nodules are small and non-fatal; however, some pose the risk of becoming potentially cancerous.
Thyroid nodules are most commonly identified during a medical exam and can go unnoticed otherwise in most cases. However, in extreme cases, the nodules can grow in size, becoming physically visible and obstructive.
SYMPTOMS?
Generally, thyroid nodules do not exhibit any signs, leading to it going unnoticed many times. However, it can very noticeable when it becomes large enough to:
- Be seen at the base of the neck, or felt
- Press the windpipe/esophagus, resulting in shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing
In some cases, the nodules could produce an excess of thyroxine, resulting in the following symptoms as well:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Excessive and increased sweating
- Tremors
- Fast or irregular heartbeats
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle weakness
THYROID NODULES TREATMENT OPTIONS?
Treatment options can vary depending on whether the nodules are benign, cancerous, or that cause hyperthyroidism.
For benign nodules, treatments include:
- Thyroid hormone therapy
- Surgery
For those that cause hyperthyroidism, treatments include:
- Radioactive iodine (capsule or liquid form)
- Anti-thyroid medications
- Surgery
- For cancerous thyroid nodules, treatments include:
- Alcohol ablation
- Surgery
PRE AND POST-TREATMENT STEPS?
Depending on the severity of your case, and the allocated treatment type, you will be briefed on the general dos and don’ts to be followed before the treatment as well as after.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES?
Since the exact cause of thyroid nodules is unknown, it is unfortunately not completely preventable. However, it is often recommended to observe a healthy lifestyle and incorporate iodine-rich foods into the daily diet, to reduce the risk of a potential nodule.
Visit Dr. K O CHAN for Thyroid Nodules Treatment.
