By :- Team VOH
24 May 2024
Author : Dr Johan Varghese, Honorary Consultant Endocrinologist, Holy Family Hospital
Thyroid cancer manifests itself in a variety of signs and symptoms, so individuals should be careful about their health. The main indicator is the presence of a lump on the neck, which sometimes grows rapidly. Although this apparent abnormality is alarming, it may also be caused by a disease other than cancer, and a comprehensive physical examination is required for an accurate diagnosis.
Swelling in the neck is also a possible sign of thyroid cancer and highlights its effect on the normal functioning of the thyroid. Because the thyroid plays an important role in regulating metabolism, diseases such as cancer can cause significant swelling. However, there are many possible causes of a swollen throat, so it is important to seek professional medical advice.
Difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia, is also a symptom associated with thyroid cancer. Tumor growth can interfere with the normal swallowing process, causing discomfort and difficulty passing food. People who experience difficulty swallowing should immediately see a doctor for a comprehensive examination.
Persistent voice changes are hallmark symptoms of thyroid cancer. Since the thyroid gland is close to the vocal cords, abnormal growth can easily change the quality of the voice. It is important to realize that persistent voice changes cannot be ignored and require medical attention to determine the underlying cause.
Pain in the front of the neck, sometimes extending to the ears, is a symptom that can occur in people with thyroid cancer. Although this discomfort is alarming, it may also be related to diseases other than cancer. Persistent or recurring pain should not be ignored and should be immediately consulted by a doctor for a thorough examination.
Dyspnea is a more advanced symptom that occurs if a thyroid tumor compresses the airways. Persistent dyspnea is less common but requires immediate medical attention to assess the extent of the problem and determine the appropriate course of action.
A persistent cough that is not caused by a cold or respiratory infection can be a less noticeable, yet significant, symptom of thyroid cancer. This persistent cough, coupled with other thyroid symptoms, highlights the importance of seeking medical advice for a thorough examination and diagnosis.
Anyone experiencing any of these signs and symptoms is strongly advised to contact a doctor immediately. It is important to remember that although these symptoms are associated with thyroid cancer, they can also arise from noncancerous conditions and other cancers in the neck. Notably, thyroid nodules are often harmless, reinforcing the need for specialized evaluation to identify the underlying cause and determine appropriate measures.
Raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer is essential for early detection and intervention. Timely consultation with a medical professional allows for a thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and initiation of appropriate treatment. Regular examinations and proactive communication with your healthcare provider are essential to maintaining thyroid health and addressing potential problems promptly.
The number of cases of thyroid cancer being detected each year has been increasing in recent years but that is largely due to better diagnostic tools and heightened awareness. Having said that one needs to be aware that anything firm or hard felt in the neck region even without any pain needs to be evaluated by a specialist. As is the case with all malignancies an early diagnosis is favourable.
If you have a persistent dry cough that is not caused by a cold or respiratory infection, there may be less obvious signs of a malignant disease. A neck ultrasound or ultrasonography is usually used to evaluate swelling in the neck, and if necessary, a small needle may be used to remove part of the lump for evaluation.
Once a thyroid nodule is examined and found to be benign (which is the case in most cases), there is no need for surgical removal unless there are local symptoms or cosmetic concerns; Follow-up is required. The idea behind this article is to be more aware and aware of your own health.
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