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Can You Have a Goiter & Not Thyroid Problems?

A goiter differs from other thyroid problems, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and thyroid cancer, in that there are not usually accompanying symptoms. However, a goiter can transform into one of these thyroid diseases without one knowing it.

  1. The Facts

    • The enlargement of the thyroid is also referred to as a goiter. Hypothyroidism also causes a slight enlargement of the thyroid, as a result of a lack of ability to produce hormones. A lack of hormones is usually the cause of goiters in most people in the United States, but is not always the case. Goiters can lead to hypothyroidism.

    Types

    • There are two types of goiters: nontoxic (or sporadic) goiters and colloid (or endemic) goiters. The cause of colloid goiters is a lack of iodine in the diet, which is necessary in order for a thyroid to produce hormones. In this case, the thyroid responds by increasing in size. The cause of nontoxic goiters generally remains unknown, and is the more common of the two types. In some cases, taking aminoglutethimide or lithium can cause this type of goiter.

    Identification

    • Some people may not even be aware that they have a goiter, until it is visibly noticeable on their necks. A goiter can become so large that it puts pressure on the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Other symptoms might include coughing and a hoarseness of the voice.

    Misconceptions

    • Although having a goiter is not necessarily indicative of hypothyroidism, having one can lead to such a thyroid condition, or even thyroid cancer if left untreated. Hence, if a person has a goiter, they may or may not have thyroid problems.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Since the effects of a goiter are pretty vague, it is advised that an individual have tests done to ensure that there are no other underlying thyroid problems. Blood work may be done to determine thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) levels. The results will indicate that the thyroid itself is normal, or that it is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). In addition, an ultrasound of the thyroid and biopsy may be performed to determine that the growth is indeed a goiter and not a malignant tumor. Treatment will depend on the results of these tests. If no other thyroid problem is indicated, then the goiter does not have to be treated.

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