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Thyroid Nodules
Surgery
Surgery is the best treatment for thyroid nodules that are:
- Cancerous (malignant).
- Suspected to be cancerous.
- Noncancerous (benign) but large enough to cause problems with breathing or swallowing.
People who develop thyroid nodules after receiving radiation treatment to the head, neck, or chest are more likely to need surgery because their risk for developing thyroid cancer is greater. But most nodules in people who have had radiation therapy are not cancerous.
Understanding Goiter -- Symptoms
Swelling at the front side of the base of the neck, ranging from a small lump to a general enlargement is a sign of a goiter. If you have hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland), you may also experience weight loss despite an increased appetite, an increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, nervousness, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and hand tremors. If you have hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland), you may also experience lethargy, slowed physical and mental functions,...
Read the Understanding Goiter -- Symptoms article > >
For information about thyroid cancer and its treatment, see the topic Thyroid Cancer.
Surgery Choices
The most common surgical procedure to remove thyroid nodules is thyroidectomy.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
March 28, 2011
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this
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