Thyroid Nodule: When Should I Worry?

???? Thyroid Nodule: When Should I Worry? with Dr. Cesar Diaz ????

In this episode of the @SaludPanama Podcast, Lorena Martínez (@Lorenadas) interviews Dr. César Díaz, specialist in Oncologic Surgery and General Surgery. 🩺✨

👨 ⚕️ Topics discussed:

• What is a thyroid nodule and how is it detected? 🩹🔬
• Risk factors and when to worry about a thyroid nodule ⚠️📉
• Treatment and management options for thyroid nodules 💉🏥

🌟 Don't miss this informative conversation and learn more about thyroid health. 🌟

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What is a Thyroid Nodule?

A thyroid nodule is an abnormal growth of cells within the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. These nodules can be solid or filled with fluid, and can range in size from very small, which are barely noticeable, to large, which can cause swelling in the neck.

Thyroid nodules can form due to a variety of reasons, including:

• Iodine deficiency: Insufficient iodine intake can lead to the development of nodules.
• Thyroid Diseases: Conditions such as multinodular goiter, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and others can cause nodules.
• Cysts and Tumors: Some nodules are benign (noncancerous) cysts or tumors that may be benign or malignant (cancerous).

Many times, thyroid nodules do not cause symptoms and are discovered during a routine physical exam or imaging tests for other reasons. However, in some cases, they can cause:

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Feeling of pressure or pain in the neck
• Changes in voice (hoarseness)
• Visible swelling in the neck

If a thyroid nodule is detected, your doctor may recommend additional tests to determine its nature. This may include an ultrasound, thyroid function tests, and sometimes a fine needle biopsy.

Treatment for thyroid nodules depends on their size, symptoms, and risk of malignancy. Options may include:

• Regular observation and monitoring
• drug treatment
• Surgery in cases of large, symptomatic or cancerous nodules