Do you have a thyroid problem? If so, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of thyroid cancer, as it can be a life-threatening illness. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 symptoms of thyroid cancer that you should be aware of. Keep in mind that not all of these symptoms will necessarily mean that you have cancer – but if you are experiencing several of them, it is worth getting checked out by your doctor.
What Is Thyroid Cancer?
Before we get into the symptoms, let’s first briefly explain what cancer is. Cancer is a condition where cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably. This can lead to the formation of tumors, which can then spread to other parts of the body (this is known as metastasis).
Cancer can occur in any area of the body, including the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a tiny butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck that produces hormones involved with metabolism, growth, and development.
Thyroid cancers develop when abnormal cells begin to grow in the thyroid gland. There are four main types of thyroid cancer:
- Papillary thyroid cancer: This is the most common form of thyroid cancer. It affects more women and young people than any other kind of thyroid disease.
- Follicular: Thyroid cancer of the follicular type, which is about 15% of all cases, accounts for 15 percent. It is more likely to develop in women over the age of 60.
- Medullary thyroid cancer: This is the least common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for about three to five percent of all cases. It is more likely to occur in men and women over the age of 40.
- Anaplastic thyroid cancer: This is the most aggressive form of thyroid cancer, and it accounts for about two to three percent of all cases. It is more likely to occur in older adults.
What Are The Symptoms Of Thyroid Cancer?
Now that we’ve explained what cancer is and where it can develop, let’s get into the symptoms. Keep in mind that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions – not just thyroid cancer. However, if you are experiencing several of them, it is worth getting checked out by your doctor.
A lump Or Mass In The Neck
This is often the first symptom of thyroid cancer. The lump may be painless at first, but it can grow larger and become painful over time. Lump size can vary from person to person – some may be very small, while others may be larger.
Changes In The Voice
If you have thyroid cancer, you may notice changes in your voice. This is because the cancerous tumor can put pressure on your vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or a change in pitch.
Difficulty Swallowing
If you have thyroid cancer, you may experience difficulty swallowing. This is because the cancerous tumor can put pressure on your esophagus (the tube that leads from your mouth to your stomach).
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands located throughout your body. They help to filter out bacteria and other toxins from the lymphatic system. If you have thyroid cancer, you may notice that your lymph nodes are swollen.
Neck Pain
If you have thyroid cancer, you may experience neck pain or stiffness. This is because the cancerous tumor can put pressure on nerves in the neck.
Consistent Coughing
If you have thyroid cancer, you may find yourself coughing more often than usual. This is because the cancerous tumor can put pressure on your trachea (windpipe).
Fatigue
If you have thyroid cancer, you may feel fatigued or exhausted. This is because the cancerous tumor can interfere with the production of hormones by the thyroid gland.
Wheezing When Breathing
If you have thyroid cancer, you may find that you wheeze when breathing. This is because the cancerous tumor can put pressure on your trachea (windpipe).
Weight Loss Or Gain
If you have thyroid cancer, you may experience unintended weight loss or gain. This is because the cancerous tumor can interfere with the production of hormones by the thyroid gland.
Changes In Appetite
If you have thyroid cancer, you may notice changes in your appetite. This is because the cancerous tumor can interfere with the production of hormones by the thyroid gland.
Thyroid Cancer Causes
There are several different causes of thyroid cancer. The most common cause is exposure to ionizing radiation (such as that used in X-rays and CT scans). Other causes include:
- Family history of thyroid cancer
- Certain genetic disorders (such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type II)
- Previous treatment for hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Age (thyroid cancer is more common in people over the age of 60)
- Gender (thyroid cancer is more common in women than men)
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see your doctor.
Treatment For Thyroid Cancer
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for thyroid cancer. Treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as your overall health. Some common treatments include:
Surgery To Remove The Thyroid Gland
The most common treatment for thyroid cancer is surgery to remove the thyroid gland. This can be done through a traditional incision in the neck, or through a minimally invasive approach (such as endoscopic surgery).
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that targets specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Conclusion
The best way to prevent thyroid cancer is to avoid exposure to ionizing radiation. If you are exposed to ionizing radiation, it is important to see your doctor for regular checkups.
Your doctor will likely recommend surgery to remove the thyroid gland if you are diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be recommended, depending on the type and stage of cancer. If you are experiencing any symptoms of thyroid cancer, it is important to see your doctor for a diagnosis.
