Aug 28, 2024 08:40 PM IST
In women, thyroid inflammation can be benign, while in men it can be cancerous. Know what you should do – from the expert.
The thyroid is a gland located in the lower part of the neck that is responsible for the production of thyroxine (T-4) and triiodothyronine (T-3). These hormones help in the normal growth and metabolism of the body. Thyroid problems are common in women and can be treated with hormonal supplements. However, swelling of the thyroid gland can be a sign of other conditions, and should be treated immediately. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sathish Nair, Academic Head and Consultant – Skull Base Surgeon and ENT – Head and Neck Surgeon, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bengaluru, explains thyroid swelling and how it should be treated.
Also Read: Thyroid Health: Functions, Disorders & 5 Tips to Manage Thyroid Health
Thyroid swelling: what does it indicate?
Dr. Sathish Nair said, “Thyroid swelling is seen as a swelling in the front of the neck that gradually increases in size. Though thyroid swelling is common in women, men are also affected. Hormonal disturbances may also occur along with it. Thyroid swelling may be a simple cyst or lump or a tumor or in rare cases, cancer. 90% of thyroid swellings in women are non-cancerous while thyroid swellings in men have a 95% chance of being cancerous.”
Also Read: Thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy: Risks and management strategies by experts
Thyroid Inflammation: Evaluation Process
Dr. Sathish Nair explains the three-test procedure that is suggested in evaluating thyroid swelling – “When you notice swelling in the neck that persists for more than 3 weeks, it is advisable to consult an ENT/ head and neck surgeon. Three tests are required to diagnose thyroid swelling. The first is a thyroid hormone test followed by an ultrasound scan of the neck which shows the size, location and nature of the swelling. The third test that will be suggested to you is a fine needle aspiration test (FNAC – Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) from the swelling which is done to know the type of cells (cancerous or tumorous) in the swelling.”
Also read: Commonly seen thyroid problems in women: Know its types, symptoms and treatment
Thyroid Inflammation: Treatment Procedures
Dr. Satish Nair said, “Wait and observation is recommended in female patients with small swellings of less than 1 cm. Generally, it is recommended that thyroid swellings of more than 4 cm in size, swelling in males, age above 55 years, and if tests point to cancer or the swelling is accompanied by pressure symptoms (difficulty in swallowing, breathing and change in voice) require surgery as the mainstay of treatment. The decision to remove partial or complete thyroid gland depends on the test results.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.
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