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About Thyroid Health


What About Thyroid Cancer?

Cancer of the thyroid gland is quite rare and occurs in less than 10 percent of thyroid nodules. You might have one or more thyroid nodules for several years before they are determined to be cancerous. People who have received radiation treatment to the head and neck earlier in life—possibly as a remedy for acne—tend to have a higher-than-normal propensity for thyroid cancer.

The signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer include:

  • You have a lump or swelling in your neck. This is the most common symptom.
  • You have pain in your neck and sometimes in your ears.
  • You have trouble swallowing.
  • You have trouble breathing or have constant wheezing.
  • Your voice is hoarse.
  • You have a frequent cough that is not related to a cold.

Some people may not have any symptoms. Their doctors may find a lump or nodule in the neck during a routine physical exam. Most people who have treatment for thyroid cancer do very well because the cancer is usually found early and the treatments, including surgery, work well.

Once treated, thyroid cancer rarely returns.




As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

SOURCES: WebMD's Medical References: "Understanding Thyroid Problems: The Basics." "Thyroid and Menopause: Confusing the Symptoms." "Thyroid Storm." WebMD's Medical Information from Healthwise: "Hypothyroidism." "Hypothyroidism Cause." "Thyroid hormone medications for hypothyroidism." "Hyperthyroidism."