A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland that can cause visible swelling in the neck and may lead to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, or pressure in the throat.
What Are the Symptoms of Goiter?
Goiters can often be seen or felt as a lump or mass in the neck. As goiters become bigger, they can put pressure on your windpipe (trachea) or food pipe (esophagus), causing symptoms such as:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing (particularly when lying down)
- Choking sensation
- Pressure in the neck
What Causes Goiter?
In some parts of the world, goiters develop because of a lack of iodine in people’s diets. However, in the United States, where iodine is added to salt, goiters are most often caused by other problems. A family history of goiter increases the risk of developing goiter.
What Are the Treatment Options?
When a patient starts to experience symptoms, treatment is often offered. The exact type of treatment is based on the cause of the goiter and the patient’s preferences. In some cases, thyroid surgery is the best treatment option. Discuss any possible symptoms or concerns you may have with your primary care provider, an endocrinologist, an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist, or an otolaryngologist.
