What are the Causes and Symptoms of Goitre?
November 6, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Goitre is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck and plays a critical role in regulating the body’s metabolism. This condition can have various causes and is often associated with specific symptoms. Here are the common causes and symptoms of goitre:
Causes of Goitre:
- Iodine Deficiency: A lack of iodine in the diet is one of the leading causes of goitre. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, and a deficiency can result in an enlarged thyroid gland.
- Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders: Conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, which involve the immune system attacking the thyroid, can lead to goitre.
- Thyroid Nodules: The presence of nodules or growths on the thyroid gland can cause enlargement and result in goitre. These nodules can be benign or cancerous.
- Medications: Some medications, particularly those that contain iodine or interfere with thyroid function, can trigger goitre as a side effect.
- Infections: Infections, though less common, can cause thyroid gland inflammation and swelling, leading to goitre.
Common Symptoms of Goitre:
- Neck Swelling: The most obvious symptom of goitre is a visible swelling in the neck, often described as a lump or enlargement. The size of the goitre can vary from small to quite large.
- Difficulty Swallowing: In some cases, a large goitre can press against the nearby structures in the neck, causing difficulty in swallowing or a feeling of a lump in the throat.
- Hoarseness: When a goitre puts pressure on the vocal cords or the recurrent laryngeal nerve, it can lead to hoarseness or changes in voice quality.
- Coughing or Wheezing: In more severe cases, a goitre can press against the trachea (windpipe) or bronchi, causing coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
- Thyroid Symptoms: Depending on the underlying cause, goitre may be associated with other thyroid-related symptoms, such as weight changes, fatigue, heat or cold intolerance, and mood changes.
It’s important to note that goitres can be classified as simple or diffuse (affecting the entire thyroid gland) and nodular (characterized by the presence of nodules). The underlying cause of the goitre may determine the specific symptoms and treatment approach.
If you suspect you have a goitre or are experiencing symptoms related to thyroid dysfunction, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. Treatment for goitre may involve addressing the underlying cause, medication, or, in some cases, surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.