Goiter is a term used to describe an enlarged thyroid. A goiter is usually associated with a thyroid that does not function well (either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), however there are situations when goiter can be present in normal functioning thyroid as seen in areas where there is less iodine intake and also in a thyroid that has nodules. In most situations a goiter indicates that there is a condition present causing the thyroid to grow abnormally.
Symptoms of Goiter
These depend on the underlying condition of the thyroid (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism etc.). Giter by itself can also exert pressure on surrounding structures and result in the following symptoms (depending on its size):
Swelling on the neck
Tight feeling on the neck
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty breathing (if very large)
Change in voice or hoarseness
Treatment of goiter is aimed at treating the underlying cause as outlined under hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. However in cases where a goiter is not associated with any abnormal function of the thyroid treatment by surgery is only indicated if the goiter is large enough to cause compression of other structures on the neck or for cosmetic reasons. Symptoms of compression on the neck may include difficulty swallowing, breathing, occlusion of major neck blood vessels and feeling of pressure on the neck as described above.
