The term “goiter” describes an irregular growth of the thyroid, which is the butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces essential hormones. Goiters are relatively common, affecting approximately 5% of people in the United States, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Below, we review more about goiters and their causes.
What Are the Symptoms of a Goiter?
In many cases, the only symptom of a goiter is swelling at the base of the neck. In other cases, the following can result:
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). This causes symptoms such as fatigue, sensitivity to cold, sleepiness, dry skin, constipation, muscle weakness and memory problems.
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). This causes symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sensitivity to heat, sweating, tremors, irritability, nervousness, muscle weakness, frequent bowel movements, changes in menstrual cycle, sleep problems, high blood pressure and increased appetite.
What Causes a Goiter?
There are many potential factors that can contribute to the formation of a goiter, including:
- Iodine deficiency. This is the leading cause of goiters worldwide. Iodine is important when it comes to the function of the thyroid. Lack of iodine can drop thyroid hormone production, which causes the pituitary gland to tell the thyroid to make more, resulting in thyroid growth.
- Hashimoto’s disease. This is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues, including in the thyroid. This means the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, the pituitary gland tells it to produce more and the thyroid becomes enlarged.
- Grave’s disease. This is another autoimmune disorder, and it causes the immune system to produce a protein that mimics thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prompting the thyroid to overproduce and grow.
- Thyroid nodules. These are irregular, benign growths of thyroid cells that form a lump.
- Thyroid cancer. This is a rare cancer that is highly treatable.
- Pregnancy. Certain hormones produced during pregnancy can cause the thyroid gland to be overactive and enlarged.
- Thyroiditis. This describes inflammation of the thyroid, which has many potential causes.
How Is a Goiter Treated?
A goiter can be treated with medications such as a hormone replacement, hormone disruptor, beta blocker or pain reliever. In rare cases, surgery is necessary.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call ENT of Georgia North today.
