Goiter Treatment

Goiter is usually defined as an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, which becomes visible as a nodule or a lump at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck, and is a butterfly shaped endocrine gland. It is mainly concerned with the production of the hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, that regulate the rate of metabolism. The actions of the thyroid gland on the other hand, is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. An enlargement of the thyroid gland or goiter can be caused by several factors.

Causes of Goiter

Goiter or an enlargement of the thyroid gland can have several causes. More commonly, it is caused by a deficiency of iodine in the body. Iodine is required by the thyroid gland to produce the thyroid hormones. A deficiency of iodine can affect the functions of the gland and lead to hypothyroidism, which is characterized by the insufficiency of thyroid hormones in the body. This can cause an enlargement of the thyroid gland or goiter. Like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid gland can also cause goiter. Apart from hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, some other important causes are chronic thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease, Graves' disease, inflammation of the thyroid or thyroiditis, thyroid nodule, multinodular goiter, pregnancy and thyroid cancer.

Goiter Symptoms

Swelling of the base of the neck, or the presence of nodules or lumps in this region is the most common symptom of goiter. In some instances, this can be the only symptom especially if it is not associated with any kind of hormonal abnormality.

• Swelling at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple
• Tightness in the throat
• Difficulty in swallowing and breathing (if the lump is very large)
• Coughing and wheezing
• Hoarseness
• Distension of the neck vein
• Depression and irritability
• Fatigue
• Palpitation
• Weight loss

Treatment for Goiter

For diagnosing this condition, the physicians can carry out a thyroid scan, which can provide insight into the nature and size of the thyroid gland. A case of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can be detected with the help of thyroid scan. Blood test is also performed to determine the levels of thyroid hormones in the body. Other diagnostic tests for goiter include antibody test, ultrasound, ultrasonography, CT scan, and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the thyroid gland.

Physicians initially adopt a policy of wait and watch, if the goiter is small and not growing in size. But, if the goiter is large or growing, and is also likely to cause difficulties in swallowing and breathing in the future, then it is treated immediately. The treatment to a great extent depends on the underlying causes. If it is caused by hypothyroidism, then levothyroxine can be used. On the other hand, radioactive iodine is used for treating an overactive thyroid gland. Another option is surgery, either total or partial. Surgery of the thyroid gland is called thyroidectomy, and is the preferred treatment option for thyroid cancer, as well as for large and nodular goiter.

Some dietary changes like including iodized salt in the diet or eating seafood and seaweed can help to lower the incidence of goiter, caused by iodine deficiency, which is the most common type of goiter found in the developing countries. But, if excess iodine is the cause of this condition, then the above mentioned foods and iodized salt intake should be reduced. However, it caused by the presence of excess iodine in the body is quite rare. Along with these precautionary measures, appropriate treatment is very important to prevent the complications associated with this condition. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to consult a physician on observing the symptoms of goiter.