Goiter is a non-cancerous swelling of the thyroid gland that can indicate a problem with the endocrine system. Iodine deficiency is the most common cause worldwide, but in countries that use iodized salt, other conditions may be to blame. Goiter symptoms can be caused by hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can have drastic effects on the body. Treatment includes hormone replacement drugs or beta blockers.
Goiter is a condition represented by a swelling of the thyroid gland. Many people who see a visible swelling at the base of the throat might immediately think that it is a cancerous growth, but goiter is not malignant. It can indicate that there is a problem somewhere with the endocrine system that needs to be evaluated. Goiter can progress with relatively few signs or symptoms, but the most common include swelling, tightness in the throat, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and coughing or hoarseness.
The thyroid gland is located on the front of the throat at the base of the neck. It is shaped like a butterfly and produces hormones that help control energy and protein levels, among other things. When there is a problem with the thyroid gland, goiter symptoms can develop. If goiter symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to breathe or swallow, or when there is visible swelling, a doctor should be seen.
Worldwide, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of goiter. In the United States and other countries, the use of iodized salt since the 1920s has virtually eradicated the problem, yet nearly two billion people worldwide are iodine deficient. Iodine deficiency can cause, among other things, mental retardation. If a person in a country that uses iodized salt develops goiter symptoms, this usually means that there is another condition to blame.
A patient who has goiter symptoms is usually tested for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is an underproduction of thyroid hormones, while hyperthyroidism is an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism is typically caused by Graves’ disease and hypothyroidism is typically caused by Hashimoto’s disease. Both can have drastic effects on the normal functions of the rest of the body, as the endocrine system is interdependent on so many other functions.
Goiter can be classified as diffuse, meaning that conditions appear throughout the thyroid gland. This is also known as a multinodular goiter. The goiter can also be toxic, in the case of hyperthyroidism, or nontoxic, in the case of hypothyroidism.
The diagnosis of goiter is usually determined when goiter symptoms appear and thyroid hormone levels are tested and found to be abnormal. In case of hypothyroidism, hormone replacement drugs are administered that simulate the normal production of thyroid hormones. In cases of hyperthyroidism that is thought to be temporary, beta blockers are used as treatment. Beta blockers do not affect the thyroid; they only reduce the side effects of overproduction of thyroid hormones. In patients with long-term hyperthyroidism, other medications may be effective in stifling the production of thyroid hormones.
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