Thyroid enlargement

Thyroid enlargement is one of the most common pathologies that occurs in both adults and children. Let's consider the reasons for an increase in thyroid gland, possible diseases that caused organ changes and methods of treatment.

The enlargement of the thyroid gland is dangerous because the organ changes in the first stages are not noticeable for the average person. But this does not mean that the increase should be ignored. Since in most cases, changes in the thyroid gland indicate serious illnesses.

But the enlarged thyroid gland is not always pathologically dangerous and requires elimination, it all depends on the reasons that led to its growth. Any increase in thyroid gland, in endocrinology is called goiter. In medicine, there is a certain classification, which allows you to trace the stages of organ enlargement:

1. The first stage - the thyroid gland is not changed, there is no increase.
2. The second stage - the thyroid gland is enlarged, but does not deform the neck, is not visible during visual examination, but is palpated.
3. The third stage - pathology is noticeable during examination, is clearly visible when the head turns, deforms the neck bends.

In addition to palpation and visual inspection, the pathological process can be recognized by the density of the thyroid gland and its mobility. So, if you have painful sensations when swallowing saliva, then this may indicate the presence of nodal formations. As for the density, the thyroid gland should be elastic, soft consistency. If the organ is dense or woody, it is a pathology, perhaps even a thyroid cancer. When swallowing the thyroid gland should move well, that is, move together with the cartilage. If the organ is standing still, this may indicate an oncological process. Palpation of the thyroid is painless, but can cause slight discomfort. The appearance of pain speaks of inflammation and the presence of diseases requiring consultation of the endocrinologist.

Causes of the thyroid enlargement

The causes of an increase in the thyroid gland are varied. Pathology can arise due to bad habits, chronic diseases, working conditions and ecology (polluted air), malnutrition and other factors. The thyroid gland is the one, the organ, the disturbances, in the work of which they negatively affect the functioning of the whole organism. If the thyroid gland ceases to cope with the tasks assigned to it, it leads to hormonal imbalance. Because of this, women and men have problems with overweight and childbearing process.

The main reason for the increase in the thyroid gland is hormonal changes in the body. Scientists have confirmed the fact that women are more prone to problems with the thyroid gland. This is because in the female body, hormonal changes occur much more often and can cause complications. The main stress for the thyroid is the period of puberty, pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. Each of these periods causes a shortage of iodine and makes the body defenseless. And constant stresses and weakened immune system is one more reason of infectious lesions shchitovidki.

Symptoms of the thyroid enlargement

Symptoms of an increase in the thyroid gland are not immediately apparent. Very often, the symptoms of a patient with thyroid gland are mistaken for mental disorders, neurological disorders and other diseases. The main disorders in the thyroid gland function are as follows: a sharp increase or loss of weight, chronic fatigue and nervousness, excessive sweating, pain in the front of the neck, insomnia at night and sleepy state during the day, puffiness and dryness of the skin, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat.

Later, the above symptomatology is supplemented by a slight but progressive increase in the anterior part of the neck. The increase is painless, but with the growth of the nodes, the surrounding structures of the neck begin to be squeezed. An enlarged thyroid gland presses on the swallowing tube of the esophagus, the tracheal tube of the trachea and the blood vessels that supply blood from and to the head.

Many patients with an enlarged thyroid gland complain of a feeling of pressure in the front of the head. Sometimes there is a slight dry cough, which is worse when lying down. Special pressure on the esophagus occurs when swallowing dry food and large pieces. In rare cases, the pressure exerted by the enlargement of the thyroid gland causes wheezing in the voice, since it affects the nerve endings that control the vocal cords.

Cough with an enlarged thyroid

This is one of those symptoms that the patient does not take seriously. And in fact cough testifies to pathological increase shchitovidki which starts to squeeze a respiratory tube of a trachea and nervous endings of vocal chords.

From the anatomical point of view, the anterior part of the body is a rather complex anatomical zone. There are many vital organs on this site. There is absolutely no free space, as, for example, in the chest or abdominal cavity. That is why, even the slightest increase in thyroid gland, negatively affects the functioning of the entire system.

There are many reasons that cause an increase in the thyroid gland. With this cough, this is one of the symptoms of the pathological process. Such a symptomatology can arise due to a lack of iodine for the production of hormones, inflammation or cancer lesions of the gland. In addition to coughing, with an increase in the thyroid gland, patients begin to suffer suffocation, difficulty in swallowing food, heaviness in the head and dizziness. If the thyroid gland has increased because of hypothyroidism, then the patient significantly increases the number of colds. Patients may suffer not only from an enlarged thyroid gland, but also from frequent bronchitis, and even from pneumonia.

[1]

Stages

The degree of enlargement of the thyroid gland allows you to determine how far the pathological process has gone, to find effective methods of diagnosis and treatment. Let's look at the main degrees of thyroid enlargement.

0. Zero degree - thyroid gland is not enlarged, with palpation and visual examination does not cause anxiety or painful sensations. That is, the iron is normal and absolutely healthy.
1. The first degree - the thyroid gland is slightly enlarged, with the swallowing and during the palpation the isthmus is well defined.
2. The second degree - an isthmus is visible at a palpation and visual survey. The thyroid glands are well palpable.
3. The third degree - at this stage, both parts of the thyroid gland are enlarged, which can be traced visually. With palpation, you can determine the degree of thickening.
4. The fourth degree is the penultimate degree of enlargement of the thyroid gland. The patient clearly sees the goiter, which has a non-natural size, the isthmus protrudes, the shares of the thyroid gland differ in asymmetry. At palpation, the patient feels pain, the thyroid gland squeezes surrounding tissues and organs. The patient may have a cough, a hoarse voice and a feeling of perspiration or a coma in his throat.
5. The fifth degree - the size of goiter several times higher than normal. Palpation is painful, but is the first step to establish the cause of the pathology.

Thyroid enlargement 1 degree

This is the beginning of the pathological process. As a rule, at the first stage, the enlargement of the thyroid gland is not noticeable and does not cause painful sensations. During this period the disease only begins to develop and with timely and correct diagnosis, the disease can be prevented.

An increase in thyroid gland 1 degree can be recognized by the results of blood tests for hormones T3, T4 and TTG. Ultrasound and computed tomography are another way to prevent goiter. At the first stage, the enlargement of the thyroid gland is treated medically, usually with the help of iodine-containing drugs and diet compliance.

[2], [3], [4], [5]

Thyroid enlargement 2 degrees

The enlargement of the thyroid gland of the 2d degree allows visually and at palpation to identify seals, and even nodes. For the second degree, it is characteristic that during the swallowing period the thyroid glands are clearly visible, which are perfectly palpated. At this stage, the contours of the neck are not changed, asymmetry of the lobes of the gland is not observed.

An endocrinologist can determine a small increase in thyroid gland, from 1-3 centimeters. If there are smaller nodes, then the doctor does not examine them and does not accept them for malignant ones, but appoints regular examinations and wait-and-see control to the patient. An increase in the thyroid gland of the 2nd degree may indicate such diseases as: nodular goiter, cyst lobes or thyroid isthmus, oncology, diffuse-toxic goiter, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Thyroid enlargement 3 degrees

This is the stage on which problems with the thyroid gland are visible during visual examination. Increased iron may not cause painful symptoms, but the appearance of the swollen neck requires medical attention, and the patient turns to the endocrinologist. The goiter may be associated with hormonal changes in the body that are caused by puberty or pregnancy.

An enlarged thyroid gland arises also with such diseases as: thyrotoxicosis, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. The third degree of increase may indicate malignant or benign neoplasms on the thyroid gland or its tissues. Do not forget that there are many other causes that cause an increase in the thyroid gland.

For an accurate diagnosis of the cause of enlargement of the thyroid gland of grade 3, in addition to visual examination and palpation, the endocrinologist assigns additional tests to the patient. So, the most effective are: ultrasound examination, computed tomography, puncture biopsy and radionuclide scanning. Treatment of the 3rd degree of enlargement is carried out by medicinal methods, with the help of medications.

Forms

[6], [7], [8], [9]

Diffusive enlargement of the thyroid gland

This disease, which is characterized by an increase in thyroid function or its increase due to the attack of its own immune system. Most often, a diffuse increase is observed in patients aged 20-50 years, females. The main cause of the disease is a hereditary defect of immunity, which negatively affects the production of autoantibody proteins that bind to receptors on the gland cells, causing its increase or stimulation of hormone production.

The first symptoms of diffuse enlargement are manifested in the form of complaints of increased irritability, sleep disorders, nervousness, sweating and poor heat tolerance, increased palpitation, diarrhea, increased appetite and weight loss. With the progression of the disease, the patient trembles fingers. Nervous system disorders lead to depression and nervous breakdowns. Very often, with diffuse goiter, the patients observe changes in the eyes (appearance of gloss, dilated pupils, etc.).

Diagnosis of diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland is handled by an endocrinologist. For this, the patient is taken on blood tests, to study the level of hormones T4, T3 and TSH. Obligatory is ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland. The treatment is medicated, special attention is paid to preparations with iodine and a diet. The prognosis for a diffuse increase in the thyroid gland is favorable. More than 70% of patients have a remission due to drug treatment.

[10], [11], [12], [13]

Enlargement of the thyroid gland

One of the most common diseases that the endocrinologist has to face. A node in the thyroid gland is a tissue site that is bounded by a capsule. When palpating, you can feel for a small compacted area. The nodes are clearly visible on ultrasound examination, and differ in color and density from the main organ. Nodes are single and multiple. In rare cases, several elements are soldered in one capsule, which indicates a nodal conglomerate. The enlargement of the thyroid nodule is not always associated with hormones.

• The nodes are both benign 95%, and malignant 5%. The dimensions of the node and the hormonal level are not the determining indicators of malignancy.
• If the site is accompanied by an increase in thyroid gland, the patient is diagnosed with goiter. In some cases, there is an atypical form of the location of the nodes - behind the sternum.
• If liquid begins to accumulate inside the unit, the patient is diagnosed with a cyst of the thyroid gland.

The main cause of enlargement of the nodes in the thyroid gland is hereditary predisposition. This also applies to malignant changes in the organ. Exposure to radiation doses is another reason for not only increasing the thyroid gland, but also the nodes. Chronic iodine deficiency is the cause of the development of colloid nodular goiter and enlargement of the nodes. Nodes can increase due to viral infections, poor ecology, chronic stress, lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet and for other reasons.

At the beginning of enlargement of the thyroid gland node, the patient does not complain of painful symptoms. But as soon as the knot starts to increase and squeeze the surrounding tissues, symptoms and complaints appear. If the node presses on the trachea, it causes coughing and breathing disorders. When squeezing the esophagus - difficulty in swallowing, hoarse voice. In some cases, patients complain of a feeling of coma in the throat. In this case, the greater the volume of the node, the more painful the symptoms.

Diagnose the enlargement of the thyroid nodule by ultrasound examination of the organ. The doctor determines the structure of the node and its size. If there is a suspicion of malignancy, the patient is punctured for a subsequent biopsy. In addition to ultrasound, it is mandatory to analyze the blood for hormones and the definition of antithyroid antibodies. An endocrinologist performs a chest X-ray using a contrast agent for insertion into the esophagus and computed tomography.

Treatment involves constant monitoring of the endocrinologist and drug therapy. With malignancy of the enlarged nodes, the endocrinologist can prescribe surgical removal. In addition to treatment, prevention is of great importance in the process of recovery. The patient is advised to avoid any exposure, including sunlight, to eat foods rich in iodine and iodized salt.

[14], [15], [16], [17], [18], [19]

Increased thyroid share

This is one of the diseases that can lead to the defeat of the entire endocrine system. The thyroid gland is the organ that produces thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is located in the anterior part of the neck and consists of two parts - the right and left. At the same time, the right share, as a rule, is slightly increased, but this is considered the norm.

On average, the normal weight of the thyroid gland is 20-30 g, the left and right lobes are soft, painless, smooth and do not move during swallowing. An increase in the proportion of the thyroid gland may indicate an inflammatory process or a benign cyst. The cyst may appear in both the left and right lobes, in rare cases, diagnose multiple cysts in both lobes. If the left share of the thyroid gland is increased, the endocrinologist conducts a differential diagnosis. Since the increase may be caused by oncological diseases or diffuse goiter.

An increase in the left lobe of the thyroid gland

The increase in the left lobe of the thyroid gland is always associated with pathological processes and diseases. The most common cause of an increase in the left lobe is benign cysts. The cyst is small in size, about three centimeters and does not cause painful symptoms. The cyst is a cavity filled with a colloidal fluid (a substance that is secreted by follicles lining the pseudodoli of the thyroid gland). If the size of the cyst exceeds three centimeters, it becomes a cause of pain and anxiety.

The symptomatology that manifests itself arises from the squeezing of the left lobes of the thyroid gland located next to the organs. The patient experiences hoarseness, coughing and throat swelling. The pathological process can be seen visually, as the neck changes its shape. On the left side there is a round formation, which deforms the cervical region, causes respiratory distress and pain in the neck.

To diagnose an increase in the left lobe of the thyroid gland, the endocrinologist palpates the neoplasm and makes a puncture. Mandatory for the patient, is a blood test for hormones TTG, T3 and T4, as well as radioisotope scanning of the thyroid. If the endocrinologist diagnosed a small cyst in the left lobe, then the treatment is a dynamic observation by the doctor. If the cyst is large, the patient is punctured and removed.

[20], [21], [22], [23], [24], [25], [26]

Increased thyroid isthmus

The enlargement of the thyroid isthmus is extremely rare, but it indicates the presence of the disease and other pathologies. The isthmus of the thyroid gland joins the left and right lobes and is located at the level of 2 or 3 cartilages of the trachea. There are times when the isthmus is at the level of the arch of the cricoid cartilage or the first cartilage of the trachea. In rare cases, the isthmus is completely absent, and the thyroid glands are not connected to each other.

The enlargement of the thyroid isthmus can be caused by hormonal changes in the body. The isthmus can suffer as a result of metastasis from the tumor focus of other organs or one of the thyroid glands. In healthy people, the thyroid isthmus is a painless, elastic pleat with a smooth, even surface. The isthmus is well palpated, and any seals and bonds are pathological formations.

Increased thyroid volume

An increase in the volume of the thyroid gland is a sign of an organ disease. There are many reasons that cause the growth of the thyroid gland. Endocrinologists distinguish several degrees of increase, each of which is characterized by a certain symptomatology. To determine whether the thyroid gland is enlarged or not, it is possible either visually with the help of palpation or with the help of ultrasound. The method of palpation allows you to determine the density, structure, displacement, soreness and the presence of nodes in the thyroid.

At any healthy person, shares shchitovidki should not exceed the sizes of a fingernail on the big finger of a hand. Normally, the gland should be painless, of normal size, well-shifted, have a uniform structure. The increase in volume may indicate chronic diseases caused by a deficiency of iodine or cancer lesions of the lobes or isthmus of the organ. The norm of the thyroid gland volume for men is no more than 25 cubic centimeters, and for women - no more than 18 cubic centimeters.

To calculate the volume of the thyroid, use a special formula: volume fraction = width • length • height • 0.479. The coefficient of 0.479 is the index of ellipsoidity. This formula is used for ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland, measuring each fraction separately to obtain the total volume of the organ. In this case, the dimensions of the isthmus are not taken into account. Based on the results of calculations, ultrasound and palpation, the endocrinologist appoints the patient to take tests to determine the cause of an increase in the volume of the thyroid gland and make a treatment plan.

Thyroid enlargement in women

An increase in the thyroid gland in women is one of the most common pathologies. Because of frequent hormonal changes, the thyroid gland in women is more susceptible to diseases and changes than men. Hormones in the body are responsible for all the physiological processes and the smooth functioning of internal organs, sleep and metabolism. If the thyroid gland does not cope with its work, then in the body begins the hormonal chaos. As a result, a woman suffers from irregularities in the menstrual cycle, which significantly reduces the possibility of normal conception of the child and complicates the period of pregnancy. The enlargement of the thyroid gland affects the appearance of a woman, there is a shiver in her hands, the general state of health worsens, her hair becomes dull.

The enlargement of the thyroid gland affects negatively the period of puberty, pregnancy, menopause and childbirth. Since it is during these periods that the thyroid is most vulnerable. Every woman should understand that the thyroid gland needs special attention. To save the health of the body, you must avoid stress and infections, maintain the immune system at a high level. Iodine deficiency in the body is another factor that provokes an increase in the thyroid gland in women.

Thyroid enlargement in pregnancy

An increase in the thyroid in pregnancy is diagnosed in many women. This is due to the fact that during the gestation period, the body and the hormonal background are completely reconstructed to meet the needs of the developing child. In the first months of pregnancy, the embryo produces its own hormone, which in its structure is similar to the hormone TSH. Because of this, stimulation and growth of the thyroid gland occurs, which cause an increase in hormones. That is, during the entire pregnancy, a woman's thyroid hormone levels are elevated, but begins to bounce back just before giving birth.

1. Deficiency of hormones shchitovidki during pregnancy is rare, as women with this disease most often suffer from infertility. If during pregnancy hypothyroidism is diagnosed, the woman suffers from irritability, depressiveness, hair loss and a constant sensation of cold. For correct diagnosis, the doctor prescribes the delivery of blood tests for T3, T4 and TTG. For treatment, a woman is prescribed drugs that help restore the normal level of hormones.
2. With increased activity of the thyroid gland, the pregnant woman suffers from hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis. But these diseases occur in one in 1,000 women. The main symptom of thyrotoxicosis is vomiting. But diagnosing the disease is very difficult, because at the first stages of pregnancy a woman suffers from toxicosis, which is quite difficult to distinguish from abnormalities in the thyroid gland. In addition to vomiting, thyrotoxicosis causes fever, nervousness and increased sweating. If a woman suffered from this disease and before pregnancy, then this poses a danger both for the woman herself and her child.

That is, an increase in the thyroid gland during pregnancy occurs frequently. For any symptoms of malfunctions in the thyroid gland, it is necessary to seek medical help from an endocrinologist.

Thyroid enlargement in men

Thyroid enlargement in men occurs less frequently than in women. This is due to the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the male thyroid gland, which differs from the female one. The whole feature is that in men, the enlargement of the gland even at the initial stages can be seen with a visual examination of the neck. But in both men and women, the thyroid gland may have different sizes. If you suspect a disease, you need to contact the endocrinologist. Let's consider the main diseases of the thyroid gland, which lead to its increase.

1. Hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism, Basedova disease) - the symptomatology of the disease manifests itself in a sharp weight loss, the man becomes restless and talkative. There is a trembling of the fingertips, increased sweating and weakness. Violations concern heart rhythm and erectile dysfunction. In addition to the above symptoms, the thyroid gland grows in size and forms a goiter.
2. Hypofunction (hypothyroidism) - in addition to thickening of the neck, a man complains of fatigue, high blood pressure, a constant sensation of cold, weight gain and erectile dysfunction.
3. Thyroiditis is the most dangerous increase in the thyroid gland, which is rapidly progressing. The symptomatology of the disease manifests itself in the hypersensitivity to low temperatures, the man early turns gray and suffers from difficulty swallowing. As a rule, the disease is transmitted by heredity, and men with thyroiditis can hardly have a child.
4. An increase in thyroid gland due to nodular and diffuse tumors - as a rule, the nodes in the thyroid gland are absolutely harmless, but still require observation from the endocrinologist.

Thyroid enlargement in children

An increase in the thyroid gland in children is a common disease and the most common endocrine pathology. The main causes that cause an increase in thyroid gland in children are a shortage of iodine and a hereditary predisposition to endocrine dis- eases. Iron can increase due to negative environmental conditions, constant stress and malnutrition. In order to prevent an increase in thyroid gland in a child, parents should bring the baby to the endocrinologist once a year.

At the first stages of development, an increase in the thyroid gland in children is visually invisible. But problems with the thyroid can also be determined from the symptomatology that is manifested. The child feels constant weakness, sharply adds weight or vice versa grows thin. Drowsiness changes with insomnia or vice versa. In addition, children often have swelling, shortness of breath and increased nervousness.

Early diagnosis of augmentation of the thyroid can prevent the pathological development of the disease. The process of treatment is long and consists in the use of medicines and changes in the way of life of the child. Prophylaxis of an increase in the thyroid gland should be from the first days of the baby's life. For this, the iodine-containing foods must be included in the child's diet.

Thyroid enlargement in adolescents

An increase in the thyroid gland in adolescents is an actual and significant problem that appears due to hormonal changes in the body, during puberty. The pathology of the thyroid gland can arise due to a hereditary predisposition to endocrine diseases, congenital hypothyroidism or iodine deficiency. Increased thyroid gland, as in children, and in adults and adolescents, has a similar symptomatology. Let's look at the diseases that cause an increase in the thyroid gland, most commonly found in adolescents.

• Sporadic and endemic goiter

Diseases arise because of the increased need of the body in iodine and other vitamins and microelements. The teenager's body is actively developing and requires a full set of nutrients. Iodine deficiency provokes an increase in the thyroid gland and the development of other organ diseases amid a shortage of iodine.

• Diffuse toxic goiter

The peculiarity of this disease is that it begins to manifest itself during puberty. The main cause of the disease - infectious diseases, chronic infections in the nasopharynx, hereditary predisposition. Treat toxic goiter medication. Diagnose, as a rule, in the second stage of development, when the goiter becomes noticeable.

Complications and consequences

What threatens an increase in the thyroid gland?

A topical issue for people who have experienced this symptom. First of all, it is worth knowing that the thyroid gland in women and men is different. Thus, in women, the pathology of this organ is more often 20%. Increased thyroid gland indicates a pathological process in the body, the presence of inflammation or disease. Increased thyroid gland, may be the cause of such symptoms as:

• Uneven menstruation - menstruation does not always come in time, then lean, then abundant.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome and depression.
• Infertility (both female and male), PMS syndrome.
• Elevated cholesterol and glucose susceptibility disorders.
• Severe pain in the muscles, weight gain.

But sometimes, the above symptoms are not associated with the thyroid gland and mistakenly perceived for psychological disorders, as a result - the patient receives not the correct and not effective treatment that only aggravates the symptoms of the underlying disease. Therefore, it is extremely important, once a year to undergo hormonal tests. This will prevent the development of thyroid diseases.

[27], [28], [29], [30], [31], [32], [33]

Is thyroid cancer dangerous?

Many patients who first approached the endocrinologist are interested in the question, is it dangerous to increase the thyroid gland? Yes, the increase indicates the pathological processes in the body and disorders that require treatment and monitoring by a doctor. As a rule, an increase in thyroid gland indicates an increase (hyperthyroidism) or a decrease (hypothyroidism) of hormones T3, TSH and T3. Because of a lack of hormones, the body loses energy, motor activity decreases, there is weakness, drowsiness, puffiness, high cholesterol. An increase in thyroid gland leads to violations of concentration of attention, slowing of thinking and violation of potency.

These kinds of problems arise from the lack of iodine. To get the norm of iodine, the thyroid gland begins to gradually increase in size, which provokes the appearance of goiter. If you do not correct the situation and do not give the patient iodine, the goiter will increase and can reach several kilograms in weight. In most cases, similar pathologies are irreversible. The patient will have to take artificial hormones for the rest of his life to maintain the thyroid gland. The dosage of hormonal drugs is determined by the endocrinologist.

Dangerous is an increase in the thyroid gland, which is caused by increased production of thyroid hormones. A similar condition is called thyrotoxicosis or hyperthyroidism. The cause of hyperthyroidism is an accelerated metabolism, nervous exhaustion, increased fatigue and nervousness. The disease must be treated, so it causes disruption of the cardiovascular system.

The consequences of an increase in the thyroid gland depend on which disease caused the increase, at what stage treatment was prescribed and what the results of therapy. In the process of magnification, the thyroid gland has a harmful effect on neighboring organs. The iron squeezes the organs and tissues, because of what the process of swallowing, breathing is broken, the voice becomes hoarse, and maybe disappears altogether. In addition to the visible thickening of the neck, the appearance of the patients also changes. Large goiter disfigures patients.

If the deformation and enlargement of the thyroid are caused by an increase or decrease in the function of the gland, then the patient has painful changes in the cardiovascular system (bradycardia, tachycardia, increased cholesterol and high blood pressure). The consequences of an increase in the thyroid gland affect the functioning of the nervous system. Patients develop unbalanced, depressed and tearful. The most pernicious consequence of an enlarged thyroid is the development of thyrotoxicosis. A sharp increase in thyroid hormones is life-threatening.

Let's consider the main consequences of an increase in the thyroid gland:

1. Sleep disorders - if the thyroid gland is caused by hyperthyroidism, that is, increased production of hormones, then the body experiences minimal needs for sleep and rest, which causes insomnia and increased energy. When hypothyroidism is observed the opposite picture. The patient slows down metabolism, which causes increased drowsiness (patients can sleep for 12-16 hours a day).
2. Sensitivity to temperature is the most common consequence of enlargements of the thyroid. The iron controls the metabolism, which is responsible for the energy expenditure. Because of the increased activity of the thyroid gland, the metabolism accelerates, which raises the body temperature. In hyperthyroidism, that is, a lowered thyroid function, body temperature decreases, the patient feels cold constantly and patients develop intolerance to low temperatures.
3. Digestion - an increase in the thyroid gland affects the digestive process. Increased production of hormones accelerates metabolism, which leads to diarrhea and intestinal peristalsis. With hypothyroidism, the patient begins constipation and flatulence.
4. Weight fluctuations - accelerated metabolism consumes energy that is in fatty deposits. Because of this, patients lose weight sharply. If the patient has reduced thyroid function, then this leads to an increase in body weight. The metabolism slows down in the patients, the body stores energy, which provokes an increase in fatty deposits.

Diagnostics of the thyroid enlargement

Diagnosis of an increase in the thyroid gland begins with an examination by an endocrinologist. It is the endocrinologist who prescribes the necessary diagnostic tests. Let's look at the basic diagnostic methods that the endocrinologist uses when enlarging the thyroid gland.

[34], [35], [36], [37], [38], [39], [40], [41]

Blood test

• TTG - thyroid-stimulating hormone test is the most effective and effective diagnostic method. At the raised or increased level TTG at the patient - a hypothyrosis, at lowered TTG - a hyperthyroidism.
• T4 - free thyroxine is one of the thyroid hormones, a high level of which indicates hyperthyroidism, and low on hypothyroidism.
• T3 - hormone triiodothyronine also helps to learn about the predisposition to diseases of the thyroid gland. High level - hyperthyroidism, low - hypothyroidism.

[42], [43], [44], [45], [46]

Nuclear scans of the thyroid gland

To diagnose the patient takes inside a small amount of radioactive iodine, a similar material can be injected into the blood. The doctor takes a picture of the gland and examines it. Increased accumulation of radioactive elements suggests hyperthyroidism, and lowered for hypothyroidism This diagnostic method is prohibited for pregnant women.

Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland

Using ultrasound, you can see the size of the thyroid gland, the presence and number of nodes, their type. Ultrasound can detect an increase in not only the thyroid gland, but also the lymph nodes that are located near the thyroid.

Puncture fine-needle aspiration biopsy

This diagnostic method is used to take tissue samples, usually from a node. A biopsy is performed in the endocrinologist's office, without any preliminary preparation. The resulting tissues are examined under a microscope, to determine the cancer cells.

Computerized axial tomography of the thyroid gland

This method can be used to assess the size of an enlarged thyroid. Axial tomography allows you to determine the displacement or narrowing of the trachea due to goiter.

[47], [48], [49], [50]

How to determine?

Many people have the question of how to determine the increase in the thyroid gland. To know whether the thyroid gland is enlarged or not, it is possible without medical education, for this it is necessary to learn correctly, to palpate the organ. Here is a small algorithm:

• Carefully look at your neck, if there are visible changes and increases, contact the endocrinologist. If the thyroid gland is not enlarged, but you are troubled by painful symptoms, the thyroid gland should be palpated.
• So, the thyroid gland is in the anterior region of the neck, on the cartilages of the larynx. The thyroid cartilage should be mobile, and the lobes of the gland soft and elastic.
• If the thyroid gland is healthy, then the pain sensations when probing it should not occur. There may be a slight discomfort, but not pain. Pain indicates a pathology.
• Note that the thyroid gland should be mobile, if it stands in place and firm to the touch, it indicates a disease. So do not delay to visit the endocrinologist.

Treatment of the thyroid enlargement

Treatment of an increase in the thyroid gland should take place after consultation with an endocrinologist and the delivery of tests. It is very important to promptly identify the ailment and seek medical help. Before making a treatment plan, the endocrinologist will prescribe the delivery of tests and conduct a diagnosis of the patient's condition to identify the cause of an increase in the thyroid gland.

Many diseases that affect the thyroid gland are associated with genetic predisposition, harmful habits and increased ionization. Hyperfunction, that is, increased activity of the gland causes fever, nervousness, blood pressure disorders, hand trembling. This is the most common cause of enlargement of the thyroid gland.

• As a rule, the thyroid gland is treated with hormone replacement therapy. The patient is prescribed drugs (tyrosine derivatives), which have a physiological effect similar to the thyroid hormones.
• As for surgical treatment, this method is rarely used, since the operation is not simple and the thyroid gland contains many blood vessels, which complicates the treatment. After surgery, the patient may experience side effects, such as parathyroid gland damage or paralysis of the vocal cords. If the operation is successful, the patient still has to end the life of hormonal therapy. Against this background, hypothyroidism often develops. All this suggests that the treatment of thyroid gland by the operation is not productive.
• Another method of treating the enlargement of the thyroid gland is the use of radioactive iodine. The drug is used to destroy the gland tissue. The main drawback of this method of treatment is the inability to correctly select the dose of the drug. Because of this, after the course of treatment, patients begin to develop hypothyroidism.
• In addition to the above methods, some patients resort to the use of alternative medicine. This method of treatment allows you to restore thyroid health without harm to the body, but the effectiveness of these methods remains in question.

Iodomarine 

Iodomarin  with an increase in the thyroid gland is a medicine that helps to prevent symptoms of iodine deficiency in the body and is one of the most effective medicines. The main indications for the use of iodomarin:

• Iodine deficiency in the body.
• Therapy and prevention of thyroid disease in elderly patients.
• Treatment of an increase in the thyroid gland after surgery.
• Prevention and treatment of diffuse euthyroid enlargement of the thyroid gland.

The drug is taken only as prescribed by the doctor. The tablet is recommended to drink after eating, squeezed with a copious amount of liquid. If iodomarin is given to infants, the drug is mixed with food, that is, milk or feed mixtures. With preventive therapy, the drug is taken for several months, if not all of life. To treat an increase in the thyroid gland in newborns, adolescents and adults, the duration of the drug is from 2 weeks to 12 months. Dosage is selected by an endocrinologist, individually for each patient.

Iodomarin is contraindicated if the patient has increased sensitivity to iodine preparations and its supplementary components, latent hyperthyroidism, a diffuse goiter in the anamnesis or an autonomous focus in the tissues of the thyroid gland.

If the dosage and administration rules are followed, side effects are extremely rare. The main complications that can arise from taking iodomarin: angioedema Quincke, hypersensitivity and allergic reactions to iodine-containing drugs, hyperthyroidism (due to the receipt of high doses of iodine in the body). Since the composition of the drug includes lactose, it is not advisable to use iodomarine in patients with intolerance to this component, since this can lead to inflammation of the mucous membranes, conjunctivitis, swelling and the appearance of metallic taste in the mouth.

In case of an overdose, the patient has a number of characteristic symptoms, such as: abdominal pain, diarrhea, browning of the mucous membrane, dehydration. Keep iodomarine in a dry place that is inaccessible to children and closed from sunlight. Storage temperature should not exceed 30 ° C. Shelf life of the drug is three years, from the date of manufacture, indicated on the package of the drug. Iodomarin is dispensed from pharmacies without a special prescription.

Food 

Nutrition with an increase in the thyroid gland should be aimed at maintaining the normal functioning of the body. For this, patients are advised to adhere to a vegetarian type of food. The diet should be rich in fruits, vegetable proteins, nuts, root vegetables. If the enlargement of the thyroid gland is caused by hypothyroidism, then such nutrition provides the body with organic iodine, which in turn prevents the lack of oxygen in the cells, the formation of nodes, tumors and other tumors. But with hyperthyroidism, food should be with a limited amount of iodine, in order not to provoke an exacerbation of the disease.

Useful products with an increase in the thyroid gland:

• Seafood (fish, shrimp, seaweed, mussels).
• Teas and drinks from bitter herbs (wormwood, millennia, hops, Diagel root).
• Sprouted grains of cereals, celery, garlic, that is, cleaning products. And also nuts and herbs, which are rich in copper and iron for the purification of blood.
• Products with high content of manganese, selenium, cobalt (blueberries, gooseberries, raspberries, pumpkins, beets, colored and Brussels sprouts).
• Honey, purified filtered water, vegetable oil, melted butter, home condiments.
• Adaptogenic plants (golden root, licorice, ginseng), drinks from dried fruits.
• Kashi and jelly on water, baked vegetables, salads from raw and boiled vegetables and any other vegetable dishes.

Dangerous and forbidden foods with an increase in the thyroid gland:

• Meat products (sausages, sausages, sardines), meat and animal fats.
• Foods that are high in sugar or salt.
• Artificial food (fast food, coffee, carbonated drinks), tap water.
• Smoked, canned, sauerkraut and fried foods.
• Dairy products, milk, eggs.
• Stimulating taste of seasoning (sauces, mayonnaise, pepper, ketchup).
• Products from the first grade flour (pasta, pastries, cakes, cookies).
• Any alcoholic beverages.

[51], [52], [53], [54], [55]

Diet

The diet with an increase in the thyroid gland  is prescribed by an endocrinologist, in order to help the body recover from the disease and to establish the functioning of the thyroid gland. Scientists have proven that products have an impact on overall health and well-being. So, with endemic goiter, the diet consists of iodine-rich foods with a restriction or total exclusion of products of zobogenic action.

With nodules in the thyroid gland, thyroiditis and other malignancies, the diet consists of products with a limited amount of iodine. With hypothyroidism, patients are prescribed a diet high in protein foods, excluding salt, cholesterol and fats. Let's look at the basic rules for making a diet with an increase in the thyroid gland.

1. When compiling a diet, special attention is paid to zobogenous products. Zabogenic products provoke an increase in thyroid gland. But in some cases, they act as antithyroid drugs and slow the growth of the gland, lowering its functions. The main zobogenic products are cruciferous vegetables. If the patient has hypothyroidism or endemic goiter, then the diet should not have raw zobogenic products.
2. Soy products - this is another category that is subject to control during the diet period. Soy foods act as a goyrogen, absorbing thyroid hormones. That is, the abuse of soy is leading to a decrease in thyroid function. Patients are advised to avoid products made on the basis of soy.
3. Under the control should be calcium-enriched foods and juices. Increased calcium content negatively affects the absorption of drugs used to treat the thyroid gland.
4. The diet should contain foods rich in fiber. Fiber helps fight thyroid diseases, constipation and excess weight. They are rich in cellulose, such products as: green cabbage, turnips, potatoes, pumpkin, apples, spinach, raisins, raspberries, dried apricots. But fiber-rich foods are zobogenic, that is, they can provoke an increase in thyroid gland and aggravate the course of hypothyroidism. The risk appears only when the products are consumed raw and in large quantities.
5. Diet with an increase in the thyroid gland does not allow you to adhere to fractional nutrition. This is due to the fact that large breaks between meals allow you to monitor and control the level of insulin and leptin.
6. Patients with an enlarged thyroid gland should consume a lot of fluid. This helps to speed up metabolic processes, reduce appetite, prevent bloating, constipation and improve digestion.

Diet with an enlarged thyroid gland should be full and varied. The food should be moderate in temperature, neither hot nor cold. Required is the use of iodized or sea salt.

[56], [57], [58], [59], [60]

Prevention

Prophylaxis of an increase in the thyroid gland is a method that is aimed at preventing the development of thyroid diseases. The most effective prevention is the regular use of iodized salt and foods that are high in iodine. Eating seafood and nuts is another method of preventing and preventing the appearance of endemic goiter.

So, the complex of preventive measures, which prevent the enlargement of the thyroid gland, consists of such components as:

• Prophylaxis of the disease due to the use of iodized salt and products with a high iodine content.
• Individual prophylaxis according to the recommendations of the endocrinologist, which involves taking medicated iodine-containing drugs.

An important preventive method is adherence to the rules of diet and nutrition, aimed at restoring the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. The patient should give up harmful habits (smoking, drinking alcohol) and lead a healthy lifestyle. If the enlargement of the thyroid gland was provoked by adverse environmental conditions, then patients are advised to change the situation to a more favorable one. Because of this depends on the state of health.

[61], [62], [63], [64], [65], [66], [67]

Forecast

The prognosis for an increase in the thyroid gland depends on which stage of development the pathology was detected, what caused the increase, and what treatment methods are prescribed. Thus, the majority of patients with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, nodes, malignant and benign thyroid tumors, with accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, have the ability to control their condition and lead a normal lifestyle. But, if the disease was not diagnosed in time, continues to progress, passed into a hypothyroid coma or a thyrotoxic crisis, then the forecast is unfavorable. Thus, the survival rate of such patients is 50%.

Hyperthyroidism, like other diseases that cause an increase in the thyroid gland, are treated with the use of corticosteroid drugs, the methods of surgery and radiotherapy. The success of treatment depends on the course of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient's body. In patients with thyroid cancers, the mortality rate is about 5%, that is, the prognosis is favorable. But survival depends on the type of cancer, the volume of the enlarged thyroid gland and tumor, and the age of the patient. The exact prognosis for an increase in the thyroid gland can only be given by an endocrinologist, after diagnosing the disease and undergoing a course of treatment.

The enlargement of the thyroid gland is a pathological process that has many causes of development. From an increased thyroid gland suffer patients of all ages. The main danger of the disease is that in the early stages of the pathology is invisible, and the symptoms of the disease can not always be attributed to the problems of the thyroid gland. It is from the diagnosis and the prescribed treatment depends on the health and life of patients. Regular use of iodine-containing products, iodized salt and a healthy lifestyle is an excellent way to prevent the enlargement of the thyroid gland and the diseases that affect it.

[68], [69], [70], [71]