Goiter Definition Sign and symptoms causes...........

I. Definition
A goiter (GOI-tur) is an abnormal enlargement of your thyroid gland. Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck just below your Adam's apple. Although goiters are usually painless, a large goiter can cause a cough and make it difficult for you to swallow or breathe.
II. Causes
The most common cause of goiters worldwide is a lack of iodine in the diet. In the United States, where the use of iodized salt is common, a goiter is more often due to the over- or underproduction of thyroid hormones or to nodules that develop in the gland itself.

III. Sign and Symptoms
Not all goiters cause signs and symptoms. When signs and symptoms do occur they may include:
  • A visible swelling at the base of your neck that may be particularly obvious when you shave or put on makeup
  • A tight feeling in your throat
  • Coughing
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Difficulty breathing
IV. Risk Factors
Goiters can affect anyone. They may be present at birth and occur at any time throughout life. Some common risk factors for goiters include:
  • A lack of dietary iodine
  • Being femal
  • Your age
  • Medical history
  • Pregnancy and menopause
  • Certain medications
  • Radiation exposure
V. Diagnosis
Diagnosing a goiter may also involve:
  •  Hormone test
  • An antibody test
  • Ultrasonography
  • A thyroid scan
  • A biopsy
VI. Treatment
Goiter treatment depends on the size of the goiter, your signs and symptoms, and the underlying cause. Your doctor may recommend:
  • Observation. If your goiter is small and doesn't cause problems, and your thyroid is functioning normally, your doctor may suggest a wait-and-see approach.
  • Medications. If you have hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement with levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Tirosint) will resolve the symptoms of hypothyroidism as well as slow the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone from your pituitary gland, often decreasing the size of the goiter.
  • Surgery

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