In this Article

• Introduction to thyroid disease
• Thyroid 101: What is the thyroid and what does it do?
• What types of thyroid disease can occur when the function of the thyroid is affected?
• What signs and symptoms can occur if thyroid function is affected?
• What types of thyroid disease can occur when the structure of the thyroid is affected?
• What signs and symptoms can occur if thyroid structure is affected?
• How is the diagnosis of thyroid disease made?
• What is the treatment for thyroid disease?
• What is the outlook for someone with a thyroid disease?
• Thyroid Disease At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Thyroid Disease - Describe Your Experience
• Thyroid Disease Glossary
• Thyroid Disease Index

What types of thyroid disease can occur when the structure of the thyroid is affected??

Structural problems with the thyroid gland can occasionally result in altered function, such as toxic multinodular goiter and toxic nodules (adenomas) leading to hyperthyroidism. However, in most cases, structural problems occur in glands that have normal function. These conditions range from simple and benign cysts to more serious problems such as thyroid cancers (papillary, follicular, medullary and anaplastic are the different types of thyroid cancer that may arise). Enlargement of the thyroid gland is referred to as a goiter. Goiters can form and can range in size from hardly noticeable to large enough to require surgical removal. Additionally, the actual location of the thyroid in an individual can be in an abnormal area of the body due to developmental abnormalities.

What signs and symptoms can occur if thyroid structure is affected?

• Depending on the size and location of the gland, symptoms can include compression of the trachea and/or esophagus leading to trouble breathing or swallowing.
  
  
• The gland may be so enlarged that it may become cosmetically unappealing.
  
  
• If the gland increases in size rapidly (such as bleeding into a cyst) there may be local pain.
  
  
• If the underlying problem is cancer, there may be enlargement of lymph nodes, and more systemic symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats and changes in appetite.

Thyroid Disease - Describe Your Experience

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