CONDITIONS
Neck disorders

Thyroid

The thyroid is a gland that resembles the shape of a butterfly. This gland is an essential organ that sits at the base of one’s Adam’s apple. Nerves responsible for voice quality are in close proximity to the gland. More importantly, the thyroid regulates hormones in the body that control the body’s metabolism, development and temperature.

Multinodular goitre

Multinodular goitre arises from lumps that grow within the gland. Sometimes these nodules are visible but in other instances can only be picked up through imaging scans or clinical examinations. These nodules grow at different rates and may occur due to external factors like genetics, chronic medication or diet.

Symptoms of multinodular goitre
Usually, multinodular goitre presents no symptoms. However, toxic multinodular goitre, also called “Plummer disease” results in hyperthyroidism. Signs of toxic multinodular goitre include:
  • Sudden unexplainable weight loss
  • Anxiety
  • Heat sensitivity
  • Hand tremors
  • Fast heartbeat
Reasons for multinodular goitre
The cause of multinodular goitre is unknown. But research links the condition to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Hashimoto's thyroiditis occurs when white blood cells fight against thyroid cells.
Multinodular goitre treatment
Non-cancerous, asymptomatic goitres don’t require treatment. A simple “watch and wait” method helps determine if treatment is necessary. If the goitre continues to grow and cause symptoms, Dr Singh will have to perform surgery to remove the gland. The doctor prescribes hormone replacement medication to substitute for the thyroid.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer arises from a mutation in the thyroid cells. At first thyroid cancer appears asymptomatic, but over time, the disease causes pain and swelling in the neck.

Symptoms of thyroid cancer
The disease doesn't present any symptoms in its early stages. Over time, as thyroid cancer progresses, the following symptoms occur:
  • A lump in the neck
  • Hoarse voice
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Throat and neck pain
  • Swollen neck lymph gland nodes
Reasons for thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is now more common than it was before. Radiation exposure and genetics are a few causes of thyroid cancer. Due to genetic mutation, abnormal thyroid cells proliferate and accumulate resulting in a tumour.
Thyroid cancer treatment
Treatment depends on the stage and grade of thyroid cancer. Dr Singh begins active surveillance to monitor small stunted cancers and conducts blood tests and neck ultrasound scans to monitor the disease at least once a year. In most cases, the doctor performs a Total thyroidectomy.
 
 
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