
Often, solid components are mixed with fluid in thyroid cysts. Fluid-filled cavities (cysts) in the thyroid most commonly result from degenerating thyroid adenomas. Some thyroid adenomas lead to hyperthyroidism. It's unclear why this occurs, but it's not cancerous and isn't considered serious unless it causes bothersome symptoms from its size. An overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue is sometimes referred to as a thyroid adenoma. Several conditions can cause nodules to develop in your thyroid gland, including: This can be caused by single or multiple nodules (lumps) in the thyroid or by an autoimmune process. Sudden weight loss even though your appetite is normal or has increasedĪlso see your doctor if you have signs and symptoms that may mean your thyroid gland isn't making enough thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism), which include:Įnlargement of the thyroid can expand the gland well beyond its typical size and cause a noticeable bulge in the neck.Seek medical care if you develop signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as: It's important to evaluate the possibility of cancer. When to see a doctorĪlthough most thyroid nodules are noncancerous and don't cause problems, ask your doctor to evaluate any unusual swelling in your neck, especially if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. Aggressive thyroid cancers are rare with nodules that may be large, firm, fixed and rapid growing. Most cancerous thyroid nodules are slow growing and may be small when your doctor discovers them. But determining which nodules are cancerous can't be done by evaluating your symptoms alone. Only a small number of thyroid nodules are cancerous. The extra thyroxine can cause symptoms of an overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism), such as: In some cases, thyroid nodules produce additional thyroxine, a hormone secreted by your thyroid gland. Press on your windpipe or esophagus, causing shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing.Be seen, often as a swelling at the base of your neck.But occasionally some nodules become so large that they can: Most thyroid nodules don't cause signs or symptoms.
