Thyroid enlargement

Enlargement of the thyroid gland is one of the most common pathologies that occurs in both adults and children. Let's consider the causes of thyroid enlargement, possible diseases that caused changes in the organ and treatment methods.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland is dangerous because changes in the organ at the first stages are not noticeable to an ordinary person. But this does not mean that the enlargement should be ignored. Since in most cases, changes in the thyroid gland indicate serious diseases.

But an enlarged thyroid gland is not always pathologically dangerous and requires elimination, everything depends on the reasons that led to its growth. Any enlargement of the thyroid gland is called goiter in endocrinology. In medicine, there is a certain classification that allows you to track the stages of organ enlargement:

1. Stage one: the thyroid gland is unchanged, no enlargement.
2. The second stage - the thyroid gland is enlarged, but does not deform the neck, is not visible during visual examination, but is palpable.
3. The third stage – the pathology is noticeable upon examination, is clearly visible when turning the head, and deforms the curves of the neck.

In addition to palpation and visual inspection, the pathological process can be recognized by the density of the thyroid gland and its mobility. So, if painful sensations occur when swallowing saliva, this may indicate the presence of nodular formations. As for density, the thyroid gland should be elastic, soft consistency. If the organ is dense or woody, then this is a pathology, possibly even thyroid cancer. When swallowing, the thyroid gland should move well, that is, move together with the cartilage. If the organ is stationary, this may indicate an oncological process. Palpation of the thyroid gland is painless, but can cause slight discomfort. The appearance of pain indicates inflammation and the presence of diseases that require consultation with an endocrinologist.

Causes thyroid enlargement

The reasons for the enlargement of the thyroid gland are varied. Pathology can arise due to bad habits, chronic diseases, working conditions and ecology (polluted air), poor nutrition and other factors. The thyroid gland is an organ, the disruption of which negatively affects the functioning of the whole organism. If the thyroid gland ceases to cope with the tasks set before it, then this leads to hormonal imbalance. Because of this, women and men have problems with excess weight and the reproductive process.

The main reason for the enlargement of the thyroid gland is hormonal changes in the body. Scientists have confirmed the fact that women are more susceptible to problems with the thyroid gland. This is explained by the fact that in the female body, hormonal changes occur much more often and can cause complications. The main stress for the thyroid gland is puberty, pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. Each of these periods causes a lack of iodine and makes the organ defenseless. And constant stress and a weakened immune system are another cause of infectious lesions of the thyroid gland.

Symptoms thyroid enlargement

Symptoms of an enlarged thyroid gland do not appear immediately. Very often, the symptoms of a diseased thyroid gland are mistaken for mental disorders, neurological disorders and other diseases. The main disorders in the functioning of the thyroid gland manifest themselves as: sudden weight gain or loss, chronic fatigue and nervousness, increased sweating, pain in the front of the neck, insomnia at night and sleepiness during the day, swelling and dry skin, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat.

Later, the above symptoms are supplemented by a slight but progressive enlargement of the anterior part of the neck. The enlargement is painless, but as the nodes grow, they begin to compress the surrounding structures of the neck. The enlarged thyroid gland presses on the swallowing tube of the esophagus, the respiratory tube of the trachea, and the blood vessels that supply blood to and from the head.

Many patients with an enlarged thyroid gland complain of a feeling of pressure in the front of the head. Sometimes a slight dry cough appears, which intensifies when lying down. Particular pressure on the esophagus occurs when swallowing dry food and large pieces. In rare cases, the pressure exerted by the enlarged thyroid gland causes wheezing in the voice, as it affects the nerve endings that control the vocal cords.

Cough with enlarged thyroid gland

This is one of those symptoms that the patient does not take seriously. But coughing indicates a pathological enlargement of the thyroid gland, which begins to squeeze the respiratory tube of the trachea and the nerve endings of the vocal cords.

From an anatomical point of view, the front part of the body is a rather complex anatomical zone. There are many vital organs in this area. At the same time, there is absolutely no free space, as, for example, in the chest or abdominal cavity. That is why even the slightest enlargement of the thyroid gland negatively affects the functioning of the entire system.

There are many reasons that cause an enlarged thyroid gland. In this case, coughing is one of the symptoms of the pathological process. Such symptoms can occur due to a lack of iodine for the production of hormones, inflammation or cancer of the gland. In addition to coughing, with an enlarged thyroid gland, patients begin to suffer from suffocation, difficulty swallowing food, heaviness in the head and dizziness. If the thyroid gland has enlarged due to hypothyroidism, then the patient's number of colds increases significantly. Patients can suffer not only from an enlarged thyroid gland, but also from frequent bronchitis, and even from pneumonia.

Stages

The degrees of thyroid enlargement allow us to determine how far the pathological process has gone, and to select effective diagnostic and treatment methods. Let's look at the main degrees of thyroid enlargement.

0. Zero degree - the thyroid gland is not enlarged, does not cause concern or painful sensations during palpation and visual examination. That is, the gland is normal and absolutely healthy.
1. First degree - the thyroid gland is slightly enlarged, the isthmus is clearly visible when swallowing and during palpation.
2. Second degree – the isthmus is visible during palpation and visual inspection. The thyroid lobes are easily palpated.
3. Third degree – at this stage both lobes of the thyroid gland are enlarged, which can be observed visually. The degree of thickening can be determined by palpation.
4. The fourth degree is the penultimate degree of thyroid enlargement. The patient clearly has a goiter, which is of abnormal size, the isthmus protrudes, the thyroid lobes are asymmetrical. When palpated, the patient feels pain, the thyroid gland compresses the surrounding tissues and organs. The patient may develop a cough, hoarseness of voice and a feeling of a sore throat or lump in the throat.
5. Fifth degree – the size of the goiter is several times larger than normal. Palpation is painful, but is the first step to establishing the cause of the pathology.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland grade 1

This is the beginning of the pathological process. As a rule, at the first stage, the enlargement of the thyroid gland is not noticeable and does not cause painful sensations. During this period, the disease is just beginning to develop and with timely and correct diagnosis, the disease can be prevented.

Stage 1 thyroid enlargement can be identified by blood tests for hormones T3, T4 and TSH. Ultrasound and computed tomography are another way to prevent goiter formation. At the first stage, thyroid enlargement is treated with medication, usually with iodine-containing drugs and diet.

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Enlargement of the thyroid gland grade 2

Thyroid gland enlargement of the 2nd degree allows visual and palpation determination of compactions and even nodes. The second degree is characterized by the fact that during swallowing, the thyroid lobes are clearly visible and easily palpated. At this stage, the contours of the neck are not changed, and there is no asymmetry of the lobes of the gland.

An endocrinologist can determine a slight enlargement of the thyroid gland, from 1-3 centimeters. If there are smaller nodes, the doctor does not examine them and does not consider them malignant, but prescribes regular examinations and expectant monitoring for the patient. An enlargement of the thyroid gland of the 2nd degree may indicate such diseases as: nodular goiter, cyst of the lobes or isthmus of the thyroid gland, oncology, diffuse toxic goiter, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland grade 3

This is the stage at which thyroid problems are visible during a visual examination. The enlarged gland may not cause painful symptoms, but the appearance of a swollen neck requires medical attention, and the patient consults an endocrinologist. Goiter may be associated with hormonal changes in the body caused by puberty or pregnancy.

An enlarged thyroid gland also occurs with diseases such as: thyrotoxicosis, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. The third degree of enlargement may indicate malignant or benign neoplasms on the thyroid gland or its tissues. It is worth remembering that there are many other reasons that cause an enlarged thyroid gland.

For an accurate diagnosis of the cause of thyroid enlargement of the 3rd degree, in addition to visual examination and palpation, the endocrinologist prescribes additional tests to the patient. Thus, the most effective are: ultrasound examination, computed tomography, puncture biopsy and radionuclide scanning. Treatment of the 3rd degree of enlargement is carried out by medicinal methods, with the help of drugs.

Forms

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Diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland

This is a disease characterized by increased thyroid function or its enlargement due to an attack by the body's own immune system. Most often, diffuse enlargement is observed in female patients aged 20-50 years. The main cause of the disease is a hereditary immune defect that negatively affects the production of autoantibody proteins that bind to receptors on the gland cells, causing its enlargement or stimulation of hormone production.

The first symptoms of diffuse enlargement are manifested in the form of complaints of increased irritability, sleep disturbances, nervousness, sweating and poor heat tolerance, increased heart rate, diarrhea, increased appetite and weight loss. As the disease progresses, patients develop trembling fingers. Nervous system disorders lead to depression and nervous breakdowns. Very often, with diffuse goiter, patients experience changes in the eyes (appearance of shine, dilated pupils, etc.).

An endocrinologist diagnoses diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland. For this, the patient undergoes blood tests to study the levels of hormones T4, T3 and TSH. An ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland is mandatory. Treatment is carried out with medication, with special attention paid to iodine-containing drugs and diet. The prognosis for diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland is favorable. More than 70% of patients experience remission due to drug treatment.

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Enlarged thyroid nodule

One of the most common diseases that an endocrinologist has to deal with. A thyroid nodule is a tissue area that is limited by a capsule. When palpating, you can feel a small compacted area. Nodes are clearly visible on ultrasound, and differ in color and density from the main organ. Nodes can be single or multiple. In rare cases, several elements are fused in one capsule, which indicates a nodular conglomerate. An enlarged thyroid nodule is not always associated with hormones.

• Nodes can be benign (95%) or malignant (5%). Node size and hormonal levels are not determining indicators of malignancy.
• If the node is accompanied by an enlarged thyroid gland, the patient is diagnosed with goiter. In some cases, there is an atypical form of node location - behind the sternum.
• If fluid begins to accumulate inside the node, the patient is diagnosed with a thyroid cyst.

The main reason for the enlargement of thyroid nodules is hereditary predisposition. This also applies to malignant changes in the organ. Exposure to radiation doses is another reason for the enlargement of not only the thyroid gland, but also the nodules. Chronic iodine deficiency is the cause of the development of colloid nodular goiter and enlargement of the nodules. Nodes can also enlarge due to viral infections, poor ecology, chronic stress, lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet, and other reasons.

At the first stage of thyroid nodule enlargement, the patient does not complain of painful symptoms. But as soon as the nodule begins to enlarge and compress surrounding tissues, symptoms and complaints appear. If the nodule presses on the trachea, it causes coughing and breathing problems. When the esophagus is compressed, there is difficulty swallowing and hoarseness. In some cases, patients complain of a lump in the throat. Moreover, the larger the volume of the nodule, the more painful symptoms.

An enlarged thyroid gland node is diagnosed using an ultrasound examination of the organ. The doctor determines the structure of the node and its size. If malignancy is suspected, a puncture is taken from the patient for subsequent biopsy. In addition to ultrasound, a blood test for hormones and determination of antithyroid antibodies is mandatory. An endocrinologist performs a chest X-ray using a contrast agent for introduction into the esophagus and a computed tomography.

Treatment involves constant monitoring by an endocrinologist and drug therapy. If the enlarged nodes are malignant, the endocrinologist may prescribe surgical removal. In addition to treatment, prevention plays a major role in the recovery process. The patient is advised to avoid any radiation, including solar radiation, eat foods rich in iodine and iodized salt.

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Enlargement of the thyroid gland

This is one of the diseases that can lead to damage to the entire endocrine system. The thyroid gland is an organ that produces thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and consists of two lobes - right and left. The right lobe is usually slightly enlarged, but this is considered normal.

On average, the normal weight of the thyroid gland is 20-30 g, the left and right lobes are soft, painless, smooth and do not move during swallowing. An increase in the thyroid gland lobe may indicate an inflammatory process or a benign cyst. A cyst can appear in both the left and right lobes, in rare cases, multiple cysts are diagnosed in both lobes. If the left lobe of the thyroid gland is enlarged, the endocrinologist conducts a differential diagnosis. Since the increase can be caused by oncological diseases or diffuse goiter.

Enlargement of the left lobe of the thyroid gland

An enlargement of the left lobe of the thyroid gland is always associated with pathological processes and diseases. The most common cause of an enlargement of the left lobe is benign cysts. The cyst is small, about three centimeters, and does not cause painful symptoms. The cyst is a cavity filled with colloidal fluid (a substance secreted by the follicles lining the pseudolobes of the thyroid gland). If the cyst is larger than three centimeters, it causes painful sensations and is a cause for concern.

The symptoms that appear arise due to the left lobe of the thyroid gland squeezing the adjacent organs. The patient develops hoarseness, coughing and a sore throat. The pathological process can also be noticed visually, as the neck changes its shape. On the left side, a round formation is observed that deforms the cervical region, causing breathing disorders and pain in the neck.

To diagnose an enlarged left lobe of the thyroid gland, the endocrinologist palpates the neoplasm and makes a puncture. Mandatory for the patient is a blood test for hormones TSH, T3 and T4, as well as a radioisotope scan of the thyroid gland. If the endocrinologist has diagnosed a small cyst in the left lobe, then the treatment consists of dynamic observation by a doctor. If the cyst is large, then the patient undergoes a puncture and removal of the neoplasm.

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Enlargement of the isthmus of the thyroid gland

Enlargement of the thyroid isthmus is extremely rare, but indicates the presence of disease and other pathologies. The thyroid isthmus connects the left and right lobes and is located at the level of the 2nd or 3rd tracheal cartilage. There are cases when the isthmus is at the level of the cricoid arch or the first tracheal cartilage. In rare cases, the isthmus is completely absent, and the lobes of the thyroid gland are not connected to each other.

Enlargement of the thyroid isthmus can be caused by hormonal changes in the body. The isthmus can be damaged as a result of metastasis from a tumor focus of other organs or one of the thyroid lobes. In healthy people, the thyroid isthmus is a painless elastic fold with a smooth, even surface. The isthmus is easily palpated, and any seals and bonds are pathological formations.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland

An increase in the volume of the thyroid gland is a sign of an organ disease. There are many reasons that cause an increase in the volume of the thyroid gland. Endocrinologists distinguish several degrees of enlargement, each of which is characterized by certain symptoms. It is possible to determine whether the thyroid gland is enlarged or not, either visually by palpation or by ultrasound. The palpation method allows you to determine the density, structure, displacement, soreness and the presence of nodes in the thyroid gland.

In any healthy person, the thyroid gland lobes should not exceed the size of a thumb nail. Normally, the gland should be painless, of normal size, move well, and have a uniform structure. An increase in volume may indicate chronic diseases caused by iodine deficiency or oncological lesions of the lobes or isthmus of the organ. The normal thyroid volume for men is no more than 25 cubic centimeters, and for women - no more than 18 cubic centimeters.

To calculate the volume of the thyroid gland, a special formula is used: volume of the lobe = width•length•height•0.479. The coefficient 0.479 is the ellipsoid index. This formula is used in ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland, measuring each lobe separately to obtain the total volume of the organ. In this case, the size of the isthmus is not taken into account. Based on the results of calculations, ultrasound examination and palpation, the endocrinologist prescribes tests for the patient to determine the cause of the increase in the volume of the thyroid gland and to draw up a treatment plan.

Enlarged thyroid gland in women

An enlarged thyroid gland in women is one of the most common pathologies. Due to frequent hormonal changes, the thyroid gland in women is more susceptible to diseases and changes than in men. Hormones in the body are responsible for all physiological processes and the smooth functioning of internal organs, sleep and metabolism. If the thyroid gland does not cope with its work, then hormonal chaos begins in the body. As a result, a woman suffers from menstrual irregularities, which significantly reduces the possibility of normal conception of a child and complicates the period of pregnancy. An enlarged thyroid gland affects a woman's appearance, trembling in the hands appears, general health worsens, hair becomes dull.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland has a negative impact on puberty, pregnancy, menopause and childbirth. Since it is during these periods that the thyroid gland is most vulnerable. Every woman should understand that the thyroid gland requires special attention. To preserve the health of the organ, it is necessary to avoid stress and infections, maintain the immune system at a high level. Iodine deficiency in the body is another factor that provokes an enlargement of the thyroid gland in women.

Enlarged thyroid gland during pregnancy

Enlargement of the thyroid gland during pregnancy is diagnosed in many women. This is due to the fact that during the period of bearing a child, the body and hormonal background are completely rebuilt to the needs of the developing child. In the first months of pregnancy, the embryo produces its own hormone, which is similar in structure to the TSH hormone. Because of this, the thyroid gland is stimulated and grows, which causes an increase in hormones. That is, during the entire pregnancy, a woman's thyroid hormone levels are elevated, and begin to return to normal only before childbirth.

1. Thyroid hormone deficiency during pregnancy is rare, as women with this disease most often suffer from infertility. If hypothyroidism is diagnosed during pregnancy, the woman suffers from irritability, depression, hair loss and a constant feeling of cold. For proper diagnosis, the doctor prescribes blood tests for T3, T4 and TSH. For treatment, the woman is prescribed drugs that help restore normal hormone levels.
2. With increased thyroid activity, a pregnant woman suffers from hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis. But these diseases occur in one out of 1000 women. The main symptom of thyrotoxicosis is vomiting. But it is very difficult to diagnose the disease, since in the early stages of pregnancy a woman suffers from toxicosis, which is quite difficult to distinguish from abnormalities in the thyroid gland. In addition to vomiting, thyrotoxicosis causes fever, nervousness and increased sweating. If a woman suffered from this disease before pregnancy, then this is dangerous both for the woman herself and for her child.

That is, an enlargement of the thyroid gland during pregnancy occurs frequently. For any symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, it is necessary to seek medical help from an endocrinologist.

Enlarged thyroid gland in men

Enlargement of the thyroid gland in men occurs less frequently than in women. This is due to the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the male thyroid gland, which differs from the female one. The whole peculiarity is that in men, an increase in the gland even in the initial stages can be seen during a visual examination of the neck. But in both men and women, the thyroid gland can have different sizes. If you suspect a disease, you need to contact an endocrinologist. Let's consider the main diseases of the thyroid gland that lead to its enlargement.

1. Hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease) - the symptoms of the disease are manifested in a sharp weight loss, the man becomes restless and talkative. There is a tremor of the fingertips, increased sweating and weakness. Disturbances concern the heart rhythm and erectile dysfunction. In addition to the above symptoms, the thyroid gland increases in size and forms a goiter.
2. Hypofunction (hypothyroidism) - in addition to a thickened neck, a man complains of rapid fatigue, high blood pressure, a constant feeling of cold, weight gain and erectile dysfunction.
3. Thyroiditis is the most dangerous enlargement of the thyroid gland, which progresses rapidly. Symptoms of the disease include increased sensitivity to low temperatures, the man's hair goes gray early and he suffers from difficulty swallowing. As a rule, the disease is hereditary, and men with thyroiditis have difficulty having children.
4. Enlargement of the thyroid gland due to nodular and diffuse tumors - as a rule, nodules in the thyroid gland are absolutely harmless, but still require observation by an endocrinologist.

Enlarged thyroid gland in children

Enlargement of the thyroid gland in children is a common disease and the most common endocrine pathology. The main reasons that cause an enlarged thyroid gland in children are iodine deficiency and hereditary predisposition to endocrine diseases. The gland can increase in size due to adverse environmental conditions, constant stress and poor nutrition. In order to prevent an enlarged thyroid gland in a child, parents should bring the baby to an endocrinologist for examination once a year.

At the first stages of development, the enlargement of the thyroid gland in children is visually unnoticeable. But problems with the thyroid gland can also be determined by the symptoms that appear. The child feels constant weakness, gains weight sharply or, on the contrary, loses weight. Drowsiness changes to insomnia or vice versa. In addition, children often experience swelling, shortness of breath, and increased nervousness.

Early diagnosis of thyroid enlargement allows preventing the pathological development of the disease. The treatment process is long and involves the use of medications and changes in the child's lifestyle. Prevention of thyroid enlargement should take place from the first days of the baby's life. To do this, it is necessary to include iodine-containing products in the child's diet.

Enlarged thyroid gland in adolescents

Enlarged thyroid gland in teenagers is a relevant and significant problem that appears due to hormonal changes in the body during puberty. Thyroid pathology can occur due to hereditary predisposition to endocrine diseases, congenital hypothyroidism or iodine deficiency. Enlarged thyroid gland, both in children and in adults and teenagers, has similar symptoms. Let's consider the diseases that cause enlarged thyroid gland, most often found in teenagers.

• Sporadic and endemic goiter

The disease occurs due to the increased need of the body for iodine and other vitamins and microelements. The teenager's body is actively developing and requires a full range of nutrients. Iodine deficiency provokes an increase in the thyroid gland and the development of other diseases of the organ against the background of iodine deficiency.

• Diffuse toxic goiter

The peculiarity of this disease is that it begins to manifest itself during puberty. The main cause of the disease is infectious diseases, chronic infections in the nasopharynx, hereditary predisposition. Toxic goiter is treated with medication. It is usually diagnosed at the second stage of development, when the goiter becomes noticeable.

Complications and consequences

What are the risks of an enlarged thyroid gland?

A pressing question for people who have encountered this symptom. First of all, it is worth knowing that the thyroid gland in women and men is different. Thus, women are 20% more likely to have pathologies of this organ. An enlarged thyroid gland indicates a pathological process in the body, the presence of inflammation or disease. An enlarged thyroid gland can be the cause of symptoms such as:

• Irregular menstruation – menstruation does not always occur on time, sometimes it is scanty, sometimes it is heavy.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome and depression.
• Infertility (both female and male), PMS syndrome.
• Elevated cholesterol and impaired glucose tolerance.
• Severe muscle pain, weight gain.

But sometimes, the above symptoms are not associated with the thyroid gland and are mistakenly perceived as psychological disorders, as a result - the patient receives incorrect and ineffective treatment, which only worsens the symptoms of the underlying disease. Therefore, it is extremely important to undergo hormonal tests once a year. This will prevent the development of thyroid diseases.

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Is an enlarged thyroid gland dangerous?

Many patients who have visited an endocrinologist for the first time are interested in the question of whether an enlarged thyroid gland is dangerous? Yes, an enlargement indicates pathological processes in the body and disorders that require treatment and observation by a doctor. As a rule, an enlarged thyroid gland indicates an increase (hyperthyroidism) or decrease (hypothyroidism) of the hormones T3, TSH and T3. Due to a lack of hormones, the body loses energy, motor activity decreases, weakness, drowsiness, swelling, and elevated cholesterol levels appear. An enlarged thyroid gland leads to impaired concentration, slow thinking and potency disorders.

Problems of this kind arise due to a lack of iodine. In order to obtain the iodine norm, the thyroid gland begins to gradually increase in size, which provokes the appearance of goiter. If the situation is not corrected and the patient is not given iodine, the goiter will increase and can reach several kilograms in weight. In most cases, such pathologies are irreversible. The patient will have to take artificial hormones for the rest of his life to support the thyroid gland. The dosage of hormonal drugs is determined by an endocrinologist.

An enlarged thyroid gland caused by increased production of thyroid hormones is dangerous. This condition is called thyrotoxicosis or hyperthyroidism. The cause of hyperthyroidism is accelerated metabolism, nervous exhaustion, increased fatigue and nervousness. The disease must be treated, as it causes disruption of the cardiovascular system.

The consequences of an enlarged thyroid gland depend on what disease caused the enlargement, at what stage the treatment was prescribed and what the results of the therapy were. During the enlargement process, the thyroid gland has a detrimental effect on neighboring organs. The gland compresses organs and tissues, which disrupts the process of swallowing, breathing, the voice becomes hoarse, and may disappear altogether. In addition to the visible thickening of the neck, the appearance of patients also changes. A large goiter disfigures patients.

If the deformation and enlargement of the thyroid gland are caused by an increase or decrease in the function of the gland, then the patient experiences painful changes in the cardiovascular system (bradycardia, tachycardia, increased cholesterol levels and high blood pressure). The consequences of an enlarged thyroid gland also affect the functioning of the nervous system. Patients develop imbalance, depression and tearfulness. The most devastating consequence of an enlarged thyroid gland is the development of thyrotoxicosis. A sharp increase in thyroid hormones is life-threatening.

Let's look at the main consequences of an enlarged thyroid gland:

1. Sleep disorders – if the enlargement of the thyroid gland is caused by hyperthyroidism, that is, increased production of hormones, then the body experiences minimal needs for sleep and rest, which provokes insomnia and increased energy. With hypothyroidism, the opposite picture is observed. The patient's metabolism slows down, which causes increased sleepiness (patients can sleep 12-16 hours a day).
2. Temperature sensitivity is the most common consequence of an enlarged thyroid gland. The gland controls metabolism, which is responsible for energy expenditure. Due to increased thyroid activity, metabolism speeds up, which increases body temperature. With hyperthyroidism, that is, decreased thyroid function, body temperature decreases, the patient constantly feels cold, and patients develop intolerance to low temperatures.
3. Digestion – an enlarged thyroid gland affects the digestion process. Increased hormone production speeds up metabolism, which leads to diarrhea and intestinal peristalsis. With hypothyroidism, the patient begins to have constipation and flatulence.
4. Weight fluctuations – accelerated metabolism uses up energy stored in fat deposits. Because of this, patients lose weight rapidly. If the patient has low thyroid function, this leads to weight gain. Patients' metabolism slows down, the body stores energy, which provokes an increase in fat deposits.

Diagnostics thyroid enlargement

Diagnosis of thyroid enlargement begins with an examination by an endocrinologist. It is the endocrinologist who prescribes the necessary diagnostic tests. Let's look at the main diagnostic methods that an endocrinologist uses for thyroid enlargement.

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Blood test

• TSH - thyroid stimulating hormone test is the most effective and efficient diagnostic method. If the TSH level is elevated, the patient has hypothyroidism, if the TSH level is low, the patient has hyperthyroidism.
• T4 – free thyroxine is one of the thyroid hormones, a high level of which indicates hyperthyroidism, and a low level indicates hypothyroidism.
• T3 – the hormone triiodothyronine also helps to find out about the predisposition to thyroid diseases. High level – hyperthyroidism, low – hypothyroidism.

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Nuclear Thyroid Scan

For diagnostics, the patient takes a small amount of radioactive iodine orally; similar material can be injected into the blood. The doctor takes a picture of the gland and studies it. An increased accumulation of radioactive elements indicates hyperthyroidism, and a decreased one indicates hypothyroidism. This diagnostic method is prohibited for pregnant women.

Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland

Using ultrasound, you can see the size of the thyroid lobes, the presence and number of nodes, and their type. Ultrasound allows you to determine the enlargement of not only the thyroid gland, but also the lymph nodes that are near the thyroid gland.

Fine needle aspiration biopsy

This diagnostic method is used to take tissue samples, usually from a node. The biopsy is performed in the endocrinologist's office, without any preliminary preparation. The obtained tissues are examined under a microscope to determine whether there are cancer cells.

Computerized axial tomography of the thyroid gland

This method can be used to assess the size of an enlarged thyroid gland. Axial tomography can determine the displacement or narrowing of the trachea due to goiter.

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How to determine?

Many people have a question about how to determine an enlarged thyroid gland. You can find out whether the thyroid gland is enlarged or not without medical education, for this you need to learn how to palpate the organ correctly. We present you with a small algorithm:

• Look closely at your neck, if there are visible changes and enlargements, consult an endocrinologist. If the thyroid gland is not enlarged, but you are concerned about painful symptoms, the thyroid gland must be palpated.
• So, the thyroid gland is located in the anterior region of the neck, on the cartilages of the larynx. The thyroid cartilage should be mobile, and the lobes of the gland soft and elastic.
• If the thyroid gland is healthy, there should be no painful sensations when palpating it. There may be slight discomfort, but not pain. Pain indicates pathology.
• Please note that the thyroid gland should be mobile, if it is stationary and hard to the touch, then this indicates a disease. Therefore, do not delay a visit to an endocrinologist.

Treatment thyroid enlargement

Treatment of thyroid enlargement should be carried out after consultation with an endocrinologist and taking tests. It is very important to promptly identify the ailment and seek medical help. Before drawing up a treatment plan, the endocrinologist prescribes tests and conducts diagnostics of the patient's condition to identify the cause of the thyroid enlargement.

Many diseases affecting the thyroid gland are associated with genetic predisposition, bad habits and increased ionization. Hyperfunction, i.e. increased activity of the gland causes fever, nervousness, blood pressure disorders, hand tremors. This is the most common cause of thyroid enlargement.

• As a rule, thyroid treatment is carried out by hormone replacement therapy. The patient is prescribed drugs (tyrosine derivatives) that have a physiological effect similar to thyroid hormones.
• As for surgical treatment, this method is used extremely rarely, since the operation is not simple and the thyroid gland contains many blood vessels, which complicates the treatment. After the operation, the patient may experience side effects, such as damage to the parathyroid glands or paralysis of the vocal cords. If the operation is successful, the patient will still have to undergo hormonal therapy for the rest of his life. Hypothyroidism often develops against the background of such treatment. All this suggests that treating the thyroid gland with surgery is not productive.
• Another method of treating an enlarged thyroid gland is the use of radioactive iodine. The drug is used to destroy the gland tissue. The main disadvantage of this method of treatment is the inability to correctly select the dose of the drug. Because of this, after completing the course of treatment, patients begin to develop hypothyroidism.
• In addition to the above methods, some patients resort to using traditional medicine. This method of treatment allows you to restore the health of the thyroid gland without harming the body, but the effectiveness of these methods remains questionable.

Iodomarin

Iodomarin for thyroid enlargement is a drug that helps prevent symptoms of iodine deficiency in the body and is one of the most effective drugs. The main indications for the use of iodomarin:

• Iodine deficiency in the body.
• Therapy and prevention of thyroid diseases in elderly patients.
• Treatment of thyroid enlargement after surgery.
• Prevention and treatment of diffuse euthyroid enlargement of the thyroid gland.

The drug is taken only as prescribed by a doctor. It is recommended to take the tablet after meals, with plenty of liquid. If iodomarin is prescribed to infants, the drug is mixed with food, that is, milk or formula. For preventive therapy, the drug is taken for several months, or even a lifetime. For the treatment of thyroid enlargement in newborns, adolescents and adults, the duration of taking the drug is from 2 weeks to 12 months. The dosage is selected by an endocrinologist, individually for each patient.

Iodomarin is contraindicated for use if the patient has hypersensitivity to iodine preparations and its additional components, latent hyperthyroidism, a history of diffuse goiter, or an autonomous lesion in the thyroid tissue.

If the dosage and rules of administration are observed, side effects occur extremely rarely. The main complications that can arise due to the use of iodomarin: Quincke's angioedema, hypersensitivity and allergic reactions to iodine-containing drugs, hyperthyroidism (due to the intake of high doses of iodine into the body). Since the drug contains lactose, it is not advisable to use iodomarin for patients with intolerance to this component, as this can lead to inflammation of the mucous membranes, conjunctivitis, swelling and the appearance of a metallic taste in the mouth.

In case of overdose, the patient experiences a number of characteristic symptoms, such as: abdominal pain, diarrhea, browning of the mucous membrane, dehydration. Iodomarin should be stored in a dry place, inaccessible to children and closed from sunlight. The storage temperature should not exceed 30 ° C. The shelf life of the drug is three years from the date of manufacture indicated on the packaging of the drug. Iodomarin is dispensed from pharmacies without a special prescription.

Nutrition

Nutrition for an enlarged thyroid gland should be aimed at maintaining the normal functioning of the organ. For this, patients are recommended to adhere to a vegetarian diet. The diet should be rich in fruits, vegetable proteins, nuts, and root vegetables. If the enlarged thyroid gland is caused by hypothyroidism, then such nutrition provides the body with organic iodine, which in turn prevents a lack of oxygen in the cells, the formation of nodes, tumors, and other neoplasms. But with hyperthyroidism, nutrition should be limited in iodine, so as not to provoke an exacerbation of the disease.

Useful products for an enlarged thyroid gland:

• Seafood (fish, shrimp, seaweed, mussels).
• Teas and drinks from bitter herbs (wormwood, yarrow, hops, angelica root).
• Sprouted grains of cereal crops, celery, garlic, that is, cleansing products. And also nuts and herbs, which are rich in copper and iron for blood purification.
• Products with high content of manganese, selenium, cobalt (blueberries, gooseberries, raspberries, pumpkin, beets, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts).
• Honey, purified filtered water, vegetable oil, ghee, homemade seasonings.
• Adaptogenic plants (golden root, licorice, ginseng), drinks from dried fruits.
• Porridges and kissels on water, baked vegetables, salads from raw and boiled vegetables and any other vegetable dishes.

Dangerous and prohibited foods for an enlarged thyroid gland:

• Meat products (sausages, hot dogs, frankfurters), meat and animal fats.
• Foods high in sugar or salt.
• Artificial food products (fast food, coffee, carbonated drinks), tap water.
• Smoked, canned, pickled and fried products.
• Dairy products, milk, eggs.
• Taste-stimulating seasonings (sauces, mayonnaise, pepper, ketchup).
• Products made from first-grade flour (pasta, baked goods, cakes, cookies).
• Any alcoholic beverages.

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Diet

A diet for an enlarged thyroid gland is prescribed by an endocrinologist to help the body recover from an illness and improve the functioning of the thyroid gland. Scientists have proven that foods affect overall health and well-being. Thus, for endemic goiter, the diet consists of iodine-rich foods with a limitation or complete exclusion of goitrogenic foods.

In case of thyroid nodes, thyroiditis and other neoplasms, the diet consists of products with a limited amount of iodine. In case of hypothyroidism, patients are prescribed a diet with a high content of protein foods, excluding salt, cholesterol and fats. Let's consider the basic rules for making a diet for an enlarged thyroid gland.

1. When composing a diet, special attention is paid to goitrogenic products. Goitrogenic products provoke an increase in the thyroid gland. But in some cases, they act as antithyroid drugs and slow down the growth of the gland, reducing its functions. The main goitrogenic products are cruciferous vegetables. If the patient has hypothyroidism or endemic goiter, then the diet should not include raw goitrogenic products.
2. Soy products are another category that should be controlled during the diet. Soy products act as a goirogen, absorbing thyroid hormones. That is, the abuse of soy leads to a decrease in thyroid function. Patients are advised to avoid products prepared with soy.
3. Calcium-enriched foods and juices should also be monitored. Increased calcium content negatively affects the absorption of medications used to treat the thyroid gland.
4. The diet should contain foods rich in fiber. Fiber helps fight thyroid disease, constipation, and excess weight. Foods rich in fiber include green cabbage, turnips, potatoes, pumpkin, apples, spinach, raisins, raspberries, and dried apricots. But foods rich in fiber are goitrogenic, meaning they can cause an enlarged thyroid gland and worsen hypothyroidism. The risk only appears when foods are consumed raw and in large quantities.
5. A diet for an enlarged thyroid gland does not allow you to stick to fractional meals. This is due to the fact that long breaks between meals allow you to control and manage the level of insulin and leptin.
6. Patients with an enlarged thyroid gland should drink plenty of fluids. This will speed up metabolic processes, reduce appetite, prevent bloating, constipation and improve digestion.

The diet for an enlarged thyroid gland should be complete and varied. Food should be of moderate temperature, neither hot nor cold. It is necessary to consume iodized or sea salt.

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Prevention

Prevention of thyroid enlargement are methods that are aimed at preventing the development of thyroid diseases. The most effective prevention is considered to be regular consumption of iodized salt and products with a high iodine content. Eating seafood and nuts is another method of prevention and warning of endemic goiter.

Thus, a set of preventive measures to prevent enlargement of the thyroid gland consists of the following components:

• Prevention of the disease by consuming iodized salt and foods high in iodine.
• Individual prevention as recommended by an endocrinologist, which involves taking iodine-containing medications.

An important preventive method is to adhere to the rules of diet and nutrition aimed at restoring the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. The patient must give up bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol) and lead a healthy lifestyle. If the enlargement of the thyroid gland was provoked by unfavorable environmental conditions, then patients are recommended to change the environment to a more favorable one. Since the state of health depends on this.

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Forecast

The prognosis for thyroid enlargement depends on the stage of development at which the pathology was detected, what caused the enlargement, and what treatment methods were prescribed. Thus, most patients with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, nodes, malignant and benign tumors of the thyroid gland, with accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, have the opportunity to control their condition and lead a normal life. But if the disease was not diagnosed in time, continues to progress, has passed into a hypothyroid coma or thyrotoxic crisis, then the prognosis is unfavorable. Thus, the survival rate of such patients is 50%.

Hyperthyroidism, like other diseases that cause an enlarged thyroid gland, is treated with corticosteroid drugs, surgery, and radiotherapy. The success of treatment depends on the course of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient. In patients with thyroid cancer, the mortality rate is about 5%, that is, the prognosis is favorable. But survival depends on the type of cancer, the volume of the enlarged thyroid gland and tumor, and the patient's age. Only an endocrinologist can give an accurate prognosis for an enlarged thyroid gland after diagnosing the disease and undergoing treatment.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland is a pathological process that has many causes of development. Patients of all ages suffer from an enlarged thyroid gland. The main danger of the disease is that in the early stages the pathology is unnoticeable, and the symptoms of the disease cannot always be attributed to thyroid problems. The health and life of patients depend on diagnosis and prescribed treatment. Regular consumption of iodine-containing products, iodized salt and a healthy lifestyle are an excellent means of preventing enlargement of the thyroid gland and diseases affecting it.

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