Thyroid swelling: What does it indicate? How to get it treated?

Thyroxine (T-4) and triiodothyronine (T-3) are produced by the thyroid, a gland near the base of the neck. These hormones support the body's typical development and metabolism. Hormonal supplements are a typical treatment for thyroid problems in women. Thyroid gland enlargement, however, can be a sign of other illnesses and has to be addressed right once. Thyroid swelling and its treatment were discussed by Dr. Satish Nair, academic head and consultant at Manipal Hospital Old airport Road, Bengaluru, and a specialist in skull base surgery and ENT.

"Swelling in the front part of the neck that progressively enlarges is known as thyroid swelling." Thyroid swelling affects both men and women, albeit it is more frequent in women. Hormonal imbalances may also accompany it. Thyroid swellings can be caused by simple cysts or nodules, tumors, or malignancy in rare instances. According to Dr. Satish Nair, 95% of thyroid swelling in men is likely to be malignant, whereas 90% of thyroid enlargement in women is not.

Dr. Satish Nair outlined the three tests that are suggested for assessing thyroid swelling: It is important to see an ENT or head and neck surgeon if you see a neck swelling that lasts longer than three weeks. The diagnosis of thyroid swelling requires the performance of three tests. The thyroid hormone test comes first, and then there's a neck ultrasound scan to determine the extent, location, and kind of edema. The next test that will be recommended to you is a fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) test, which is performed to determine the type of cells (tumor or malignant) present in the swelling.

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