“Small gland, big energy” is talking about the thyroid gland. It produces thyroid hormone, which affects heart rate as well as metabolism and other vital systems. Sometimes the thyroid cells get out of control and form a lump (which may be solid or liquid), which is called a thyroid nodule.
What are the causes of thyroid nodules?
The causes of thyroid nodules are not known, but a number of conditions do contribute to the condition, including:
- Thyroiditis. This is a chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland, represented by the condition Hashimoto’s disease. It is associated with hypothyroidism (“low thyroid function”).
- Iodine deficiency. Iodine deficiency can cause thyroid nodules, although this condition is uncommon in countries where iodized salt is introduced.
- Thyroid adenoma. An unexplained overgrowth of thyroid tissue. Most adenomas are not harmful, but some produce thyroid hormones, which can lead to hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid cysts. Usually degenerates from a thyroid adenoma.
- Thyroid cancer. Most thyroid nodules are not cancer, but a few do.
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What are the risk factors for thyroid nodules?
Thyroid nodules are actually quite common. at least half of people over age 60 have nodules. These nodules are usually small and asymptomatic, so they are only found during a doctor’s visit or ultrasound.
The following factors increase the likelihood of thyroid nodules: living in an iodine-deficient diet; having a family history of thyroid nodules; being male; and being under 30 or over 60 years old.
How do I know if I have a thyroid nodule?
Sometimes looking in the mirror may reveal a nodule or two: look in the mirror, lift your chin in a swallowing motion, and look for a lump on either side of the trachea at the (male) laryngeal node. If you find one, contact your doctor to confirm the diagnosis.
Although 90% of nodules are benign, they still need to be diagnosed by a doctor, and follow-up testing may include:
- Blood tests for thyroid hormones
- Ultrasound testing
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy
Note that even benign nodules that are so large that they interfere with breathing or swallowing need to be treated early.
How are thyroid nodules treated?
Thyroid nodules that are benign and small can be monitored. Regular ultrasound is necessary to monitor their growth. Testing of thyroid hormone levels is also necessary, and your doctor may adjust them with medication if the results fluctuate.
Any malignant nodule should be removed surgically. Surgery is also necessary to treat benign nodules that are very large or have certain special conditions.
Some nodules produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, and this requires radioactive iodine therapy, which can shrink the nodule without harming other tissues. Other treatments include anti-thyroid hormone medications and surgery.
