Why is my thyroid gland swollen?
A goiter can sometimes occur when your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). In someone who has Graves’ disease, antibodies produced by the immune system mistakenly attack the thyroid gland, causing it to produce excess thyroxine. This overstimulation causes the thyroid to swell.
Is a swollen thyroid an emergency?
Thyroid storm is a medical emergency condition and needs to be treated immediately; even before all confirmatory diagnostic tests are performed.
Is an enlarged thyroid serious?
A goiter is typically not dangerous, unless the underlying cause of thyroid enlargement is a thyroid cancer. It is important to identify the cause of the goiter to rule out cancer. When a goiter becomes large enough, it may appear as a swelling in the neck.
What happens if your thyroid is inflamed?
Inflammation of the thyroid gland, or thyroiditis, can lead to over- and under-production of thyroid hormones that control metabolism.
Does ibuprofen reduce thyroid swelling?
But if the symptoms of an overactive thyroid are bothering you, your doctor may prescribe a beta blocker such as propranolol to help settle the shakes and a racing heart. An anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen can help if the inflammation is causing you pain.
Does a swollen thyroid hurt?
The most obvious symptom of subacute thyroiditis is pain in the neck caused by a swollen and inflamed thyroid gland. Sometimes, the pain can spread (radiate) to the jaw or ears. The thyroid gland may be painful and swollen for weeks or, in rare cases, months.
Can swollen thyroid cause sore throat?
The main feature is usually an enlarged thyroid gland with pain or tenderness that develops rapidly over 24-48 hours. You may have a sore throat, flu-like symptoms and/or fever.
Can underactive thyroid cause sore throat?
Symptoms may include pain in the throat, feeling generally unwell, swelling of the thyroid gland and, sometimes, symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland or symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland. Symptoms usually get better when the infection is treated with antibiotics.
Can thyroid cause trouble swallowing?
Thyroid enlargement can cause difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, as a result of the thyroid gland directly compressing the swallowing organs. The thyroid gland, which is usually about the size of a quarter, can become enlarged as a symptom of various thyroid disorders, as well as other medical conditions.
What should your thyroid look like when you swallow?
As you swallow, look for any enlargements, lumps, protrusions, or anything that is off center. It is a good idea to repeat the process again, swallowing another mouthful of water, and observing the structures in your neck a few times. Thyroid nodules are bumps that usually appear round.