A swollen thyroid is also known as a goiter. A goiter can be caused by issues with your thyroid, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and multiple nodules. Although a swollen thyroid is usually not life-threatening, you should have it checked with an endocrinologist, as some goiters can become cancerous.
Instructions
Detection
1. Feel your thyroid. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland, located in the front of your throat. Usually you cannot feel it. However, if you feel or see a small lump, this is indicative of a swollen thyroid.
2. Check for related symptoms. According to Mayo Clinic, a goiter can cause breathing or swallowing difficulties, throat tightness, coughing and a hoarse voice.
3. Look at your family health history. Mayo Clinic reports that a family history of autoimmune diseases like goiters increases your risk of developing one. However, family history of other thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism should not be overlooked, as such disorders are sometimes linked to a swollen thyroid.
Diagnosis
4. Call your doctor for a referral to an endocrinologist, a specialist who treats endocrine gland disorders such as those with the thyroid. You may be able to make an appointment directly with an endocrinologist, depending upon your health insurance policy.
5. Get a blood test done, per your doctor's orders. According to Mayo Clinic, your endocrinologist will determine your thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and antibody levels in your blood. If you have a goiter, your blood work will likely show a presence of abnormal thyroid antibodies as well as a high TSH level.
6. Take a thyroid sonogram. During the test, your endocrinologist will be able to see how many, if any, nodules are present on your thyroid. These nodules are fluid-filled cysts, which are usually benign. Still, it is imperative that any suspected nodules be checked by an endocrinologist to rule out cancer. He may even take a biopsy out of one of the nodules to check for cancer cells.
7. Follow treatment orders. If your goiter is related to hypothyroidism, you will be prescribed thyroid hormone replacements such as Synthroid to help reduce and prevent further swelling. Radioiodine may be administered for hyperthyroid patients in order to destroy some of the extra thyroid hormones which make the thyroid swell. In more serious cases, your goiter may require surgical removal, especially if you experience breathing difficulties. Surgery is also used for malignant goiters.
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