“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. A goiter can occur when the thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone or when there is a structural abnormality in the gland.
The most common cause of goiter worldwide is iodine deficiency, which is a key nutrient needed for thyroid hormone synthesis. Other causes of goiter include autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, and thyroid cancer.
Symptoms of goiter may include a visible swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, coughing, hoarseness, and a feeling of tightness or pressure in the throat.
Treatment for goiter depends on the underlying cause. In cases where the goiter is causing significant symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, surgical removal of the gland may be necessary. In other cases, treatment may involve medications to regulate thyroid hormone levels or the use of iodine supplements.
If you suspect you may have a goiter or are experiencing symptoms related to your thyroid gland, it is important to see a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate treatment.