Nodular goiter of the thyroid gland is a fairly common problem that is often encountered in modern endocrinological practice. But it is worthwhile to understand that “goiter” is a generalized concept that indicates the presence of seals in the tissues of the thyroid gland, which in turn can be both relatively harmless benign and malignant neoplasms.
Why does a thyroid nodular goiter occur?
In fact, the causes of nodes and seals in the tissues of the thyroid gland are not always known. In some cases, doctors associate this disease with a lack of iodine. Moreover, the deficiency of this element can be caused both by its insufficient amount in food, and by the use of products and drugs that slow down the processes of its absorption in the body. There is also evidence to confirm that the appearance of seals may be due to radiation exposure. There is also genetic heredity. Risk factors include thyroid cysts, as well as inflammatory processes in the tissues of the gland.
Thyroid nodular goiter: main symptoms
In fact, the clinical picture may be different depending on the form of the disease. For example, a toxic diffuse-nodular goiter of the thyroid gland is accompanied by an increase in the secretory activity of the organ, which affects the amount of hormones produced. In such cases, the symptoms are very noticeable: increased sweating, irritability, palpitations, insomnia, disruption of the digestive tract.
At the same time, nodular non-toxic goiter of the thyroid gland may not cause any external symptoms at all, since there is no hormonal disturbance in this form of the disease. Quite often, the problem is discovered by accident during palpation of the thyroid gland during a medical examination or in the process of ultrasound examination. The main signs appear only in the case of a strong and rapid proliferation of nodes, patients complain of constant hoarseness and a feeling of constriction of the throat. In some cases, discomfort and pain during a conversation or swallowing also appear. With a strong increase in goiter, a subcutaneous bulge in the neck is noticeable.
Thyroid nodular goiter and diagnostic methods
Of course, the presence of nodules and seals can be confirmed using ultrasound. Such testing also makes it possible to determine the number, size and location of nodes. In addition, it is necessary to donate blood to determine the hormones in order to find out whether the neoplasm affects the basic functions of the thyroid gland. A biopsy of the gland is also mandatory with further cytological examination of the samples, this is the only way to find out if the tumor is malignant.
Thyroid nodular goiter and treatment methods
In fact, therapy depends on the form and cause of the disease. For example, with toxic goiter, in which there is a change in the level of hormones, it is necessary to take special hormonal drugs. If the nodules are small and do not affect the activity of the gland, doctors can recommend a special diet and regular monitoring. In the case of rapid growth of the neoplasm, surgical treatment methods are used.