Thyroid nodules are growths within the thyroid gland that may cause symptoms like a visible neck lump, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or throat discomfort. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, Dr. David Grant offers advanced evaluation and compassionate treatment, guiding patients through diagnosis, management, and potential surgical intervention with precision.
What Are Thyroid Nodules?
Thyroid nodules are abnormal growths or lumps that develop within the thyroid gland at the base of your neck. Most nodules are benign and may go unnoticed, but some can produce excess hormones or become cancerous. These nodules can vary in size and number and may be discovered during a physical exam or imaging test. While many cause no symptoms, others may lead to changes in voice, trouble swallowing, or visible swelling. Proper evaluation is essential to determine whether monitoring, biopsy, or treatment is needed.
Signs & Symptoms of Thyroid Nodules:
- Noticeable lump or swelling in the neck
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of something in the throat
- Persistent cough not caused by illness
- Tightness or pressure in the neck
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- Unexplained weight loss or anxiety (if the nodule is producing excess hormones)
If Left Untreated:
While many thyroid nodules are harmless, others may grow, cause symptoms, or indicate underlying thyroid dysfunction or cancer. Untreated nodules can lead to difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or visible neck swelling. For nodules that produce excess hormones, untreated overactivity can disrupt metabolism and affect overall health. Timely evaluation is essential to rule out serious conditions and ensure appropriate care.
Possible Causes of Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules form when abnormal tissue grows within the thyroid gland, often due to hormonal changes, inflammation, or structural changes in the thyroid. While many are benign, identifying the underlying cause helps guide appropriate treatment and monitoring. Possible causes of thyroid nodules include:
- Overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue (thyroid adenoma)
- Chronic inflammation from conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Fluid-filled cysts within the thyroid
- Iodine deficiency leading to thyroid dysfunction
- Multinodular goiter causing multiple enlargements
- Thyroid cancer or malignant growths
How Are Thyroid Nodules Diagnosed?
If you notice a lump in your neck or experience related symptoms, Dr. Grant will begin with a detailed physical examination and medical history. You may undergo a thyroid ultrasound to assess the size and structure of the nodule. Blood tests help evaluate thyroid function, while a fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be performed to determine if the nodule is benign or malignant. These tests ensure accurate assessment and help guide your treatment plan.
Your Personalized Thyroid Nodule Treatment
At Grant Thyroid Surgery, your care begins with a comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Grant, who tailors each treatment to your unique needs. Depending on your test results, he will recommend the most appropriate approach—whether that involves monitoring, medical management, or surgical intervention. Dr. Grant’s expertise ensures that your treatment is not only medically sound but also minimally disruptive to your life.
Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a board-certified expert in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery and fellowship-trained in advanced head and neck surgical oncology. He offers compassionate care in a refined setting. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, we coordinate every aspect of your care—diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up—so you can focus on healing. If you’ve noticed symptoms or a lump in your neck, schedule a consultation with Dr. Grant to evaluate your thyroid nodules today.
