An enlarged thyroid, also known as a thyroid goiter, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In many cases, particularly when the goiter causes symptoms, becomes visible, or is associated with thyroid cancer, surgery becomes the most effective treatment option.

Understanding an Enlarged Thyroid: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

What is an Enlarged Thyroid?

An enlarged thyroid, commonly referred to as a thyroid goiter, is an abnormal growth of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism through hormone production. When the thyroid becomes enlarged, it can create noticeable swelling in the neck and cause discomfort or other symptoms. In some cases, the enlargement may indicate a more serious condition, such as thyroid cancer or a substernal goiter.

An enlarged thyroid can be classified into a few different types:

• Simple goiter: A uniform enlargement of the thyroid.
• Multinodular goiter: Characterized by multiple nodules, this type may involve both benign and malignant nodules.
• Substernal goiter: When the goiter extends into the chest cavity, it can compress nearby structures like the trachea or esophagus, leading to breathing and swallowing difficulties.

Check our Dr. Roy's article on the most important things to know about a thyroid goiter.

Symptoms of an Enlarged Thyroid

The symptoms of an enlarged thyroid, or thyroid goiter, can vary depending on the size of the goiter. Some patients may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may face significant discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• Visible swelling or lump in the neck or a feeling of tightness.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing if the goiter presses against the trachea or esophagus.
• Hoarseness or voice changes due to pressure on the nerves that go to your vocal cords.

In cases of substernal goiter, where the enlarged thyroid extends into the chest cavity, symptoms may be more severe. Difficulty breathing and chest discomfort are common in these cases, and they often require surgical intervention.

Enlarged Thyroid and the Importance of Surgical Intervention

For many patients, an enlarged thyroid will require surgery to prevent complications and ensure optimal health. Surgery is often recommended in the following scenarios:

• Goiter causing compressive symptoms: When an enlarged thyroid presses against the airway, esophagus, or is causing vocal changes, surgery can alleviate these symptoms and prevent long-term damage.
• Suspicion of cancer: If nodules within the goiter are suspicious for thyroid cancer, surgery becomes essential for both diagnosis and treatment.
• Substernal goiter: When a thyroid goiter grows downward into the chest, it can compress vital structures and surgery is the only option.

Enlarged Thyroid: When to See a Specialist

If you have noticed swelling or a lump in your neck or are experiencing symptoms like difficulty swallowing or breathing, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your overall quality of life.

Patients who suspect they have an enlarged thyroid should consult a thyroid specialist for evaluation. At the Clayman Thyroid Center, our team of expert surgeons, led by Dr. Gary Clayman and Dr. Rashmi Roy, is committed to providing personalized care for each patient, ensuring the best possible treatment plan for every individual.

In fact, Dr. Roy is known as the “Goiter Guru” and specializes in removing large and complex thyroid goiters. Her expertise, combined with the high volume of thyroid surgeries performed at the Clayman Thyroid Center, ensures that patients receive the best possible care. For more information on thyroid goiters and their treatment, visit Dr. Roy’s YouTube channel, where she provides valuable educational content on thyroid health.

If you have a substernal goiter, and a surgeon wants to open your chest to remove it, seek an expert second opinion. It is usually not necessary to open your chest to remove the goiter if your surgery is performed by a high-volume expert thyroid surgeon like Dr. Roy.

The Risks of Untreated Enlarged Thyroid

Leaving an enlarged thyroid untreated can lead to several risks and complications. Goiters that continue to grow may cause more severe compressive symptoms over time, leading to significant discomfort and difficulty breathing. If the enlarged thyroid is related to thyroid cancer, delaying treatment can allow the cancer to spread, making it more challenging to treat effectively.

Moreover, a substernal goiter that grows into the chest cavity can interfere with the function of other organs and structures, increasing the risk of complications. For these reasons, surgical intervention is crucial.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Enlarged Thyroid

An enlarged thyroid can be a source of discomfort, anxiety, and health risks, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for thyroid goiters, patients can make informed decisions about their health. For those experiencing symptoms or diagnosed with an enlarged thyroid, seeking the care of a high-volume, expert surgeon like those at the Clayman Thyroid Center is crucial for the best outcomes.

If you suspect you have an enlarged thyroid or have been diagnosed with a thyroid goiter, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with the specialists at the Clayman Thyroid Center. Early intervention and expert care can make all the difference in your thyroid health.

Additional Resources

• Become our patient by filling out the form at this link. 
• Learn more about The Clayman Thyroid Center here. 
• Learn more about our sister surgeons at the Scarless Thyroid Surgery Center, Norman Parathyroid Center, and Carling Adrenal Center
• Learn more about the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery.
• Check out Dr. Roy's video on how to check your own neck for signs of thyroid cancer at home