Benign thyroid nodules can cause a number of symptoms, but it's important to know that not all of them require surgery. Let’s take a moment to go over a few common signs and discuss when surgery might be needed — or not.
- Swallowing Problems: It's normal to notice changes in swallowing as we age, and there are many reasons this can happen. While a thyroid issue could be the cause, surgery is usually not the first option. We’ll often try other treatments first before considering surgery.
- Voice Changes: Just like swallowing, it’s natural for our voice to change over time, often becoming deeper. This happens because of a natural weakening of the vocal folds, something called presbylarynges. If a thyroid nodule is affecting your voice, it could be something more serious such as thyroid cancer. Fortunately, that is a very uncommon reason to have voice changes.
- Visible Swelling: If you notice swelling in your neck, it might be something you want to address, but this depends on your personal comfort level. Younger individuals may want to consider treatment sooner, as nodules in younger people are less likely to shrink on their own. Plus, a growing goiter could stretch your skin and lead to wrinkles down the line. For some, non-surgical treatments like RFA (radiofrequency ablation) may be a good alternative to explore.
- Pressure in Your Neck: Feeling pressure in your neck can stem from many things, and a thyroid nodule is one of them. If you sense a mass in your throat when swallowing, it could be a sign of a nodule, but keep in mind that other issues like reflux can also contribute to this sensation. Surgery might or might not be appropriate for patients with pressure in their neck.
- Positional Discomfort: If you’re experiencing discomfort when lying on one side or when doing things like raising your arms above your head or practicing yoga, it could be related to your thyroid. In cases like these, treatment can often offer relief, especially if the discomfort is connected to thyroid enlargement. You might be eligible for non-surgical treatment options as well.
Remember, surgery isn’t always necessary for benign thyroid nodules. But if you're tired of dealing with symptoms and want to improve your quality of life, it might be worth considering treatment. Treating a smaller nodule may offer more options, including non-invasive procedures like RFA or even scarless surgery.
If you're wondering when it might be right for you to consider treatment, talking with your doctor can help. Or feel free to reach out to us at the Russell Center for Endocrine Health — we're here to guide you on your journey to feeling better.
