Thyroid nodules

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors

When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs

Definition

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, just below your Adam's apple — about where you'd put a bow tie. Weighing less than an ounce, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate every aspect of your metabolism, from your heart rate to how quickly you burn calories.

Sometimes normal thyroid tissue begins to grow, causing one or more nodules to develop within the gland. The great majority of these solid or fluid-filled lumps are noncancerous (benign), and most thyroid nodules don't cause any symptoms. In fact, you often won't know you have a thyroid nodule until your doctor discovers it during a routine medical exam.

Some thyroid nodules, however, may become large enough to press on your windpipe or your esophagus, making it uncomfortable or difficult to swallow. About 5 percent of thyroid nodules may be cancerous (malignant).

Treatment depends on the type of thyroid nodule you have.

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Symptoms