Goiter
Common ConditionEnlargement of the thyroid gland causing a visible swelling in the neck, often caused by iodine deficiency or thyroid conditions.
Related specialists:Endocrinologist
Symptoms
Visible swelling at base of neck
Feeling of tightness in throat
Coughing
Hoarseness
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty breathing
May have no symptoms if small
Symptoms of overactive thyroid
Symptoms of underactive thyroid
Neck vein distension
Causes
1
Iodine deficiency2
Graves' disease3
Hashimoto's thyroiditis4
Thyroid nodules5
Thyroid cancer6
Pregnancy7
Inflammation8
Multinodular goiter9
Family history10
Certain medicationsTreatments
Observation for small goiters
Iodine supplementation
Thyroid hormone replacement
Radioactive iodine
Anti-thyroid medications
Surgery (thyroidectomy)
Treating underlying cause
Regular monitoring
Levothyroxine
Iodized salt use
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you notice swelling in your neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, hoarseness, or symptoms of thyroid dysfunction (weight changes, fatigue, heart palpitations).
Find a Specialist NowAbout Goiter
Goiter: Understanding Thyroid Enlargement
Goiter is thyroid gland enlargement that can have various causes. In the Philippines, iodine deficiency was historically common. Treatment depends on the cause and size, ranging from observation to surgery.
"Ang thyroid ay maliit ngunit mahalaga—huwag balewalain ang pagbabago sa leeg."
Specialists Who Commonly Treat Goiter
Based on related specialties
