What is a thyroid nodule? The thyroid gland is located in the middle of the neck. A thyroid nodule is something that grows in the thyroid gland in a round or oval shape. Thyroid nodules are very common and are usually harmless. However, sometimes, some serious diseases can cause thyroid nodules, such as cancer. The thyroid gland produces a hormone called “thyroxine”. Most thyroid nodules do not change the level of thyroxine in the body, but some cause the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroxine, which can cause some symptoms. What are the symptoms of a thyroid nodule? Some people have no symptoms. They may have a thyroid nodule during a routine physical exam by a doctor or nurse or during other imaging tests. Some people will have symptoms. For example, they may feel or see a lump in their neck or exhibit symptoms of excess thyroxine, such as: anxiety, restlessness or sleep disturbances, weakness or fatigue, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and excessive bowel movements. How are thyroid nodules treated? Treatment of thyroid nodules varies with the cause and the amount of thyroid hormones, including: 1. Follow-up observation: Not all thyroid nodules require treatment. If the thyroid nodule is small and does not look serious, it can be followed up. However, close follow-up is needed to see if the nodules grow or need treatment. 2. Medications: Your doctor can make thyroid nodules shrink by using thyroxine medication. If you take thyroxine medication, your thyroxine levels need to be monitored regularly. 3. Radioactive iodine: Radioactive iodine is available in tablet and oral liquid form. It has a very small amount of radiation that can destroy a large amount of thyroid tissue and is only used for nodules that produce large amounts of thyroid hormones. It is contraindicated in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Surgical removal of thyroid nodules: If the nodule is filled with fluid, the fluid can be drained from the nodule. What if I want to get pregnant? If you are planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor or nurse. Pregnant women should not be treated with radioactive iodine because it is harmful to the fetus. If a woman has had radioactive iodine treatment, it should be at least 6 months before she can conceive. That way, the doctor can be sure that the thyroid nodule is no longer producing large amounts of thyroid hormones.