Are thyroid nodules common? What you need to know
1. Introduction
Thyroid nodules are more common than you might think! In fact, if you were to walk down the street and perform unsolicited neck ultrasounds on 1,000 people, you would likely find nodules in 500 to 600 of them. Understanding thyroid health is crucial because while many nodules are benign, some may require closer monitoring due to the potential for thyroid cancer. In this article, we’ll break down the facts you need to know about thyroid nodules, their symptoms, and treatment options.
2. What are thyroid nodules?
A thyroid nodule is a small lump or mass of tissue within the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of your neck. These nodules can either be “cold,” meaning they do not produce thyroid hormone, or “hot,” meaning they produce excess thyroid hormone, which your body doesn’t need. By the age of 60, nearly half of all Americans will have at least one thyroid nodule. While their presence is fairly common, knowing whether a nodule is benign or malignant is essential.
3. Symptoms of thyroid nodules
Most thyroid nodules do not cause symptoms and are often discovered incidentally during routine physical exams or imaging tests for unrelated reasons. However, some nodules can cause noticeable symptoms, including:
- A visible swelling or lump in the neck.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Hoarseness or changes in voice if the nodule presses on nearby structures.
It’s important to note that many thyroid nodules are asymptomatic, which is why regular checkups and thyroid evaluations are critical for early detection.
4. Are thyroid nodules serious?
The vast majority of thyroid nodules—about 90%—are benign, meaning they are not cancerous and pose little to no risk. However, approximately 10% of nodules may be malignant, most commonly diagnosed as Papillary Thyroid Cancer. While Papillary Thyroid Cancer is generally slow-growing, it still requires treatment. Other, less common types of thyroid cancer include Medullary, Follicular, and the more aggressive Anaplastic thyroid cancers.
If someone has a thyroid nodule, it’s crucial to evaluate their personal history to assess the risk of malignancy. Questions to consider include:
- Have they ever had radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest?
- Have they been exposed to radiation through their work or environment?
- Does their family have a history of thyroid cancer?
- Have they lived in areas with high radiation exposure?
These factors help assess the risk and determine the appropriate next steps.
5. Diagnosis and treatment
The best way to diagnose and evaluate thyroid nodules is through a thyroid ultrasound. This imaging tool allows us to measure the size and characteristics of the nodule. Based on the ultrasound findings, a nodule is assigned a TIRADS (Thyroid Imaging, Reporting and Data System) score, which ranges from 1 (normal) to 5 (highly suspicious for cancer).
- TIRADS-3 nodules: These are typically biopsied if they are larger than 2.5 cm.
- TIRADS-5 nodules: These are biopsied at 1 cm or larger due to their higher likelihood of malignancy.
If a nodule is benign, we continue monitoring it with annual ultrasounds to check for growth or changes. For large benign nodules causing discomfort, patients have two treatment options:
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A minimally invasive procedure that shrinks the nodule.
- Surgery: Removal of the nodule if it is large or causing significant symptoms.
If a nodule is malignant, the standard treatment is thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid). Unlike many other cancers, thyroid cancer typically does not require chemotherapy or radiation and is often managed effectively by your endocrinologist.
6. Conclusion
Thyroid nodules are common, and while most are benign, it’s important to have them evaluated by a healthcare expert. If you have noticed any symptoms or have concerns about your thyroid health, schedule a consultation for a thorough assessment.
Are you struggling with thyroid conditions and seeking specialized care that prioritizes your unique needs? Look no further than The Advanced Institute of Endocrinology in Dallas, where we offer unparalleled, high-quality services that set us apart from traditional practices.
At The Advanced Institute, we are proud to offer cutting-edge therapies like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for the treatment of thyroid nodules. We stay at the forefront of medical advancements to provide our patients with the most effective and minimally invasive options available.
Comprehensive, integrative approach
Our comprehensive, integrative approach to thyroid care ensures that you receive personalized attention and a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We take the time to understand your unique health goals and work closely with you to develop a strategy that addresses the root causes of your condition.
Shorter wait times, more personalized care
We understand that your time is valuable, which is why we strive to provide shorter wait times and more personalized care than traditional practices. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring that you feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout your treatment journey.
Why choose The Advanced Institute?
We are highly trained in the latest thyroid treatments, ensuring that you receive the best possible care.
We offer cutting-edge treatments like RFA, providing you with the most effective and minimally invasive options available.
Personalized attention: our integrative approach ensures that you receive a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and health goals.
7. Take the first step towards better thyroid health
Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your thyroid health. Schedule a consultation with The Advanced Institute of Endocrinology today and experience the difference of personalized, high-quality care.
Contact us now
Visit our website or call us to book your appointment.
Together, we’ll create a plan to help you achieve optimal thyroid health and improve your overall well-being.