A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland. When it is not due to a nodular lesion, but is diffusely enlarged, it is called a simple goiter.
Generally, simple goiter is due to a deficiency of iodine in the diet, which is called endemic goiter, although there are other causes that prevent the formation of thyroid hormones and also produce it, for example, autoimmune diseases or some medications, such as lithium or amiodarone, among other causes. We speak then of sporadic, non-toxic goiter.
Symptoms of goiter
In general, the symptoms of any type of goiter are minimal, since most patients usually have normal levels of thyroid hormone. But at other times there may be symptoms of hormonal hyperfunction (toxic goiter) or hypofunction.
Excessive size of the gland or of the nodules contained therein may cause local compressive problems that cause a foreign body sensation, coughing, swallowing problems, or breathing difficulties in some postures, mainly when lying down.
Diagnosis of goiter and its evolution
Its diagnosis is made by medical history and physical examination of the patient, in addition to hormone analysis and imaging tests, such as ultrasound and scintigraphy.
Sometimes goiter or enlargement of the gland is accompanied by nodules. This is when we speak of a uni or multinodular goiter. In these cases it is also advisable to analyze the progression, shape, size, uptake and cellularity of the nodules in order to assess their benignity or malignancy.
Treatment of goiter according to its origin
Treatment depends on the cause and may require surgery, radioactive iodine, iodine or thyroid hormone supplementation, depending on each case.
Preventing goiter with thyroid control
Except for dietary or pharmacological causes, it is difficult to prevent the appearance of a goiter, especially nodules.
As a general prevention, the first thing to do is to maintain proper control of thyroid hormone levels. With regard to a nodule that has already arisen, it is advisable to be followed up by an endocrinologist, who will evaluate the diagnostic procedures and the treatment guidelines to be followed. The latter may range from simple observation to pharmacological or surgical treatment, with partial or total removal of the gland.