Thyroid Nodules

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck. Some people develop benign (non-cancerous) growths on the thyroid gland. These are called thyroid nodules, and when they grow large, they may also be referred to as “goiters.”

While many thyroid nodules do not cause symptoms, some do. When nodules grow large or become symptomatic, they can result in:

Protruding, visible lumps in the neck
Difficulty swallowing/painful swallowing
Voice changes
Difficulty breathing
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

What causes thyroid nodules?

Thyroid nodules are caused by an overgrowth of thyroid cells, which can be stimulated by chronic inflammation, iodine deficiency, previous radiation exposure (especially as a child) or other risk factors. They can also be hereditary, meaning the risk for developing them can be passed to you genetically from your parents.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Nodules

Conservative treatment

Benign nodules on the thyroid may require no treatment at all. They can be observed by your doctor over time to ensure they are not causing problems or becoming cancerous. Lifestyle and/or nutrition changes may also be recommended. These may include increasing iodine intake or managing insulin resistance to slow or prevent nodule growth.

Hormone therapy

Levothyroxine suppression therapy may be used to lower thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. This may reduce the size of thyroid nodules for those who have abnormal hormone levels.

Thyroid Nodule Surgery

Thyroid surgery is sometimes recommended for large, benign nodules that cause breathing or swallowing problems. Surgery may also be appropriate for an overactive thyroid which accelerates the body’s metabolism, causing symptoms like heart palpitations, weight loss, anxiety, excessive sweating and sensitivity to heat.

Minimally invasive thyroid treatment

Carolina Endovascular offers a minimally invasive treatment for thyroid nodules called thyroid nodule ablation. This advanced, outpatient procedure is designed to shrink benign thyroid nodules without surgery.

Visit our thyroid treatment page to learn more »

Thyroid Nodule Treatment