Symptoms:
Goiter / Visible Swelling in the Neck – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Goiter / Visible Swelling in the Neck – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment in Emirates Hospitals Group 

Overview

Goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, sometimes visible as a swelling in the neck. It may or may not cause symptoms.

Causes

1. Iodine Deficiency – A lack of iodine in the diet can cause thyroid enlargement.
2. Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism – Overactive or underactive thyroid can lead to goiter.
3. Thyroid Nodules or Cancer – Growths within the thyroid gland.
4. Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions like Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Diagnosis

1. Physical Exam – Checks for visible swelling.
2. Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, T3, T4) – Determines thyroid hormone levels.
3. Ultrasound & Biopsy – Evaluates nodules or cancer risk.

Treatment Options

• Iodine Supplements – For iodine deficiency.
• Medications – To regulate thyroid hormone levels.
• Surgery or Radioactive Iodine Therapy – For large or cancerous goiters.

Related Treatments

• Graves disease