Goitre also spelled Goiter is a swelling of the thyroid gland that is located in the neck. This condition is more prominent in women than in men. There are two primary types of goiters.
- Nodular goiter – The thyroid gland may feel lumpy upon examination as certain parts or nodules will swell.
- Diffuse small goiter – The thyroid gland will feel smooth upon examination but this type involves the whole thyroid gland swelling.
What is the Cause of Goitre?
The common cause of Goitre historically was the deficiency of iodine in a person’s diet. Since the thyroid gland uses iodine for its secretions, if you eat a diet that is low or deficient in organic iodine you are at an increased risk of developing Goitre. There are people throughout the world who still develop Goitre due to iodine deficiencies in their diets especially in areas where diets mainly consist of food in its raw and uncooked states.
Goitre can also be caused by thyroid hormone production imbalance, when nodules develop in the gland itself or during pregnancies or menopause. Causes other than iodine deficiency have become the most common factors since most countries have begun iodizing their salt, however it does still play a role in development of goiters in many countries.
Risk Factors for Developing Goitre
Some factors can place you at a higher risk than others for this condition. Making yourself aware of those that increase your risk and managing the factors you can control may help reduce some risk.
Risk factors include:
- Disorders of the Thyroid such as Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism
- Smoking has been suggested as a contributing factor in the condition especially if you smoke and your diet is low in iodine.
- Being female places you at a greater risk.
- Age especially for those over the age of 50.
- Menopause and pregnancy
- Certain illness and disease such as someone with thyroid cancer, those who have infections of parasites, bacterial or fungi infections can increase your risk.
- Autoimmune disease either affecting you or a close relative.
- Certain medications can increase your risk including amiodarone, lithium, antiretroviral medications and immunosuppressant medications.
- Radiation exposure to the neck or chest either as a treatment for another condition, diagnostic radiology, exposure to radiation during a nuclear test or accident or having been employed in a nuclear facility.
Signs and Symptoms of Goitre (Goiter)
Common Symptoms include:
- Swelling of the thyroid gland.
- The swelling may progress into a visible lump or knot in the neck area.
- A cough that becomes more frequent.
- A sensation of tightness in the throat.
- Hoarseness of the voice.
Less common signs and symptoms which can also indicate a goiter include:
- Breathing difficulty
- Difficulty in swallowing
If you have risk factors that place you at a higher risk of developing Goitre or if you are experiencing signs or symptoms you should be examined and tested by your physician.
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