Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer

In the United States, 20,000 people are diagnosed with thyroid cancer each year. The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located in the neck. Thyroid cancer is more common in older adults, women and Caucasians. Exposure to radiation and a family history of thyroid cancer are risk factors for thyroid cancer.

Problems Swallowing

Due to the increased size of the thyroid, patients may have problems swallowing. Patients sometimes feel as though something is stuck in their throat.

Hoarseness

Voice changes, including hoarseness, are common signs of thyroid cancer.

Pain

Thyroid cancer can cause pain in the throat and neck. This pain can be made worse through simple acts like swallowing or talking.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Thyroid cancer can cause the lymph nodes to swell. Swollen lymph nodes may be visible to the naked eye or felt on the side of a patient's neck.

Warning

Thyroid cancer needs to be diagnosed by a doctor. Many other conditions could be responsible for the common symptoms of thyroid cancer evident.

References

• Mayo Clinic
• Medicine Net