Goiter (enlarged thyroid)

Overview

A goiter can be smooth or lumpy and may come with normal, high, or low thyroid levels.

Iodine shortage is rare in the U.S. thanks to iodized salt.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Neck swelling
• Bulging eyes or swelling at the front of the neck

Less common

• Trouble swallowing
• Hoarseness

Look up a symptom: Bulging eyes or swelling at the front of the neck · Low iodine, or a goiter · Lump or nodule in the thyroid

When to get medical care

Causes

Thyroid disease.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women

Possible complications

• Trouble swallowing: A large goiter can press on the food pipe

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Thyroid tests:
• Ultrasound:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Use iodized salt
• Take thyroid medicine

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Use iodized salt

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an endocrinologist (hormone doctor).

Living with it

• Take thyroid pills the same way every day, often on an empty stomach.
• Get blood tests as advised.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Thyroid Association: Patient guides and support group finder.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women: More common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most goiters are harmless.

Most are harmless.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Do I need a biopsy?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Goiter (enlarged thyroid)