What is the Thyroid Gland and Goiter?
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine organ located in the front part of the neck, in front of the trachea. It produces vital hormones called T3 and T4 that regulate the body's metabolism rate, energy use, and hormone balance. Goiter is the general term for when the thyroid gland becomes larger than normal, i.e., abnormal enlargement.
The presence of goiter is not a disease by itself; it may be a symptom of a different underlying thyroid problem. When the thyroid gland enlarges, it can function normally (euthyroid), underactive (hypothyroidism), or overactive (hyperthyroidism).
What are the Causes of Goiter?
The enlargement of the thyroid gland can be due to many different reasons. The most common causes include:
- Iodine Deficiency: Iodine mineral is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. When there is insufficient iodine in the body, the thyroid gland may enlarge in an attempt to produce more hormones.
- Nodules: Solid or fluid-filled cysts (lumps) within the thyroid can cause overall gland enlargement. This condition is called "nodular goiter."
- Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to its decreased function (hypothyroidism). The gland may become inflamed and enlarged during this process.
- Graves' Disease: An autoimmune condition where the immune system stimulates the thyroid to produce excessive hormones (hyperthyroidism), often resulting in goiter.
- Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland due to various causes (such as viral infections) can lead to temporary or permanent goiter.
- Thyroid Cancer: Although rare, thyroid cancer can also cause the gland to enlarge or develop nodules.
Symptoms of Goiter
Goiter may not always cause symptoms and can sometimes be discovered incidentally during routine examinations. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Visible swelling in the front of the neck
- A sensation of fullness or pressure in the throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Shortness of breath (especially when lying on your back)
- Hoarseness or changes in voice
Additionally, depending on the underlying cause, symptoms of hyperthyroidism (such as palpitations, weight loss, irritability) or hypothyroidism (such as weight gain, fatigue, dry skin) may accompany goiter.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approach
For the diagnosis of goiter, after a physical examination by a doctor, blood tests (TSH, T3, T4) are performed to measure thyroid hormone levels, and thyroid ultrasonography is used to examine the structure, size, and nodules of the gland in detail. When necessary, a fine needle aspiration biopsy may be performed to take samples from nodules.
Treatment is planned based on the cause, size, symptoms caused by the goiter, and the functional status of the thyroid gland. Treatment options may include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, surgical intervention, or just regular follow-up. Therefore, it is very important for every patient suspected of having a goiter to be evaluated by a physician.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.