What is a Swollen Thyroid?

A swollen thyroid may be the first signal that a thyroid disease, perhaps even cancer, is developing. However, in many cases, no significant illness will progress as physicians employ a variety of treatments to ensure this gland's health.

Significance

• The thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck, producing and regulating hormone release. It controls the metabolic rate and function of every cell of the body.

Goiter

• A swollen thyroid is also referred to as an enlarged thyroid or a goiter and is an indication that a form of thyroid disease may be present. It commonly occurs when thyroid nodules (a lump of cells within the thyroid) form and cause the thyroid to swell.

Nodules

• The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists says the formation of thyroid nodules is the most common endocrine problem in the United States. But only about 5 percent of these growths become cancerous. They may be either filled with fluid (cysts) or solid. They occur quite frequently in women, often among those in menopause or approaching it.

Signs

• Thyroid nodules usually display no symptoms and the majority are diagnosed as a result of an unrelated test like an MRI. A swollen thyroid typically appears as symptomatic only when it has become large enough to be viewed or felt.

Hyper/Hypo Thyroidism

• The swollen goiter also may indicate hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive gland). According to The Hormone Foundation, an enlarged thyroid additionally may arouse suspicion of either Hashimoto's disease or Grave's disease, two disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid.