Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Goiter can cause neck swelling, tightness, cough or hoarseness. Trouble swallowing or breathing needs urgent care.
Many goiters cause no symptoms and are noticed only as a swelling in the neck, or found on a scan done for another reason.
Signs of the swelling itself
Signs of an underactive thyroid
Tiredness, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, feeling cold, hair loss, low mood and heavy periods.
Signs of an overactive thyroid
Weight loss, fast heartbeat, sweating, shakiness, anxiety, loose stools, heat intolerance and light periods.
Warning signs that need prompt care
If breathing is difficult or you feel faint, call 112 or 102.
Key point
A goiter should be checked even if it does not hurt. Blood tests and an ultrasound can tell whether it is working normally and whether any lump needs further tests.
Before your appointment
Carry earlier thyroid reports, a list of medicines and supplements, and notes on swelling, weight change, heartbeat, mood and periods. Tell your doctor about any family history of thyroid disease and whether you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. This helps pick the right tests and treatment.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem
Explore more articles about this topic
Gentle yoga and exercise support energy and stress in thyroid disease but do not shrink a goiter or replace treatment.
Goiter treatment ranges from watchful monitoring to medicines, radioactive iodine or surgery, depending on the cause.
Goiter is graded by size from palpable to visible, and may become nodular or press on the windpipe over time.
Goiter can be diffuse or nodular, toxic or non-toxic, endemic or autoimmune. The type guides tests and treatment.
A goiter diet needs the right amount of iodine, not extra. Do not self-supplement iodine or kelp without advice.
A goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland. Learn what it is, why it forms and which neck swellings need urgent care.
