Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer Thyroid cancer doesnt always have symptoms, so it can be hard to detect and diagnose. In fact, some of the possible symptoms arent actually caused by thyroid cancer itself. Instead, these symptoms can be caused by a thyroid nodule—and thyroid nodules arent necessarily cancerous. People may visit a doctor because they notice one or more of the following symptoms and signs: Lump in the Neck - Not all thyroid nodules are big enough to cause a noticeable lump. Some people, though, may notice a lump in the front of their neck. Other people may notice a lump in someone’s neck when they swallow. The most common way that a thyroid lump (and potential thyroid cancer) is detected, however, is when a doctor performs a thyroid examination and feels the thyroid. Researched and Prepared by Prof Michael C Herbst [D Litt et Phil (Health Studies); D N Ed; M Art et Scien; B A Cur; Dip Occupational Health] Approved for Distribution by Ms Elize Joubert, Acting CEO March 2014 Page 3 Swollen Lymph Node - Swollen lymph nodes in the neck are another symptom of thyroid cancer (a symptom not related to thyroid nodules). Thyroid cancer can spread to the lymph nodes, which are scattered throughout your body to help you fight infection. The lymph nodes in your neck (you can feel them under your jaw) become swollen when you have a cold or sore throat, for example. When the infection is gone, they should return to their normal size, so if the lymph nodes in your neck stay enlarged for an extended period—and you arent sick—you should talk to your doctor. Hoarse Voice - The thyroid gland sits just below the larynx (more commonly known as the voice box or Adam’s apple). A thyroid nodule (which may be thyroid cancer) may be pressing on the voice box, causing hoarseness or voice changes. This is an uncommon way that thyroid cancer is detected. Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing - The thyroid is on top of the trachea or windpipe. A developing thyroid cancer may put pressure on the trachea, making breathing more difficult. The esophagus is below the trachea, so again, a developing thyroid cancer can cause trouble swallowing. This is also an uncommon way that thyroid cancer is detected. Neck Pain - Pain is usually a clue that something in the anatomy is not working quite as it should. If experiencing neck pain that lasts longer than a few weeks, one should make an appointment with a doctor. Thyroid cancer is a rare cause of neck pain. Throat Pain - Similar to neck pain, throat pain that will not go away should be reported to a doctor as it is a possible symptom of thyroid cancer. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck. The above symptoms are associated with thyroid nodules of all types, not just cancerous nodules. Since most thyroid cancers develop in thyroid nodules, it is essential to be aware of these symptoms and signs that may point to thyroid cancer. The symptoms of thyroid cancer are hard to detect - and usually the noticeable symptoms are caused not by the cancer itself but by the thyroid nodule where the thyroid cancer is developing.
Posted on: Tue, 18 Mar 2014 08:03:17 +0000
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