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Moderate severity
· Endocrinology
Goiter
Enlarged thyroid gland
A visible swelling of the thyroid gland at the front of the neck. It may go with normal, high or low thyroid function.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Higher in iodine-poor regions
- Typical age
- Adults, more in women
- Outlook
- Usually treatable
- System
- Hormones
Reviewed by a verified Endocrinology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Iodine deficiency
- Autoimmune thyroid disease
- Thyroid nodules
- Hormone imbalance
- Family history
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Swelling at the base of the neck
- Tightness or trouble swallowing
- Hoarse voice
- Cough
- Symptoms of over or under-active thyroid
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Iodine correction where deficient
- Thyroid hormone medication
- Treat the underlying thyroid disorder
- Radioiodine or surgery if large
- Regular monitoring
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Use iodised salt
- Get thyroid checks if at risk
- Treat thyroid disorders early
- Maintain a balanced diet
Do’s
- Cook with iodised salt
- Get thyroid function tested
- Follow up on neck swelling
- Take thyroid medicine consistently
Don’ts
- Ignore a growing neck swelling
- Self-medicate with iodine
- Skip thyroid follow-ups
- Stop medication abruptly
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.