How to Know the Signs of Thyroid Cancer
September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, an important opportunity to learn about thyroid cancer symptoms and when to talk with a healthcare provider.
At Premier Surgical Associates, our experienced thyroid and endocrine surgeons provide specialized surgical care for patients throughout Knoxville, Cleveland, Johnson City, and East Tennessee. Knowing the possible warning signs of thyroid cancer can help patients seek evaluation when something doesn’t seem right.
What Is Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer begins in the thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck. The thyroid produces hormones that help regulate important functions such as metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.
There are several types of thyroid cancer, including papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer. Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type. Many thyroid cancers can be successfully treated, particularly when they are found before they have spread.
What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages. Sometimes a thyroid nodule is discovered during a routine physical exam or imaging performed for another reason.
Possible signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer include:
- A lump or swelling in the neck, especially a new or enlarging thyroid nodule
- Persistent hoarseness or changes in your voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain in the neck or throat
These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have thyroid cancer. Thyroid nodules are common, and most are not cancerous. However, a new or changing neck lump or persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Who Is at Greater Risk for Thyroid Cancer?
Factors that may increase a person’s risk include being female, certain inherited or genetic conditions, a family history of thyroid cancer, and previous exposure to high levels of radiation—particularly radiation exposure during childhood.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop thyroid cancer, and some people diagnosed with thyroid cancer have no known risk factors.
Why Is Early Detection of Thyroid Cancer Important?
Finding thyroid cancer earlier can provide more treatment options and is generally associated with excellent outcomes. According to the National Cancer Institute’s SEER data, the five-year relative survival rate for localized thyroid cancer is approximately 99.9%.
There is no routine thyroid cancer screening recommended for most people without symptoms. Instead, pay attention to changes in your neck and discuss concerning symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Expert Thyroid Surgery in East Tennessee
When thyroid cancer requires surgery, the appropriate procedure depends on factors including the type, size, and extent of the cancer. Surgery may involve removing one lobe of the thyroid or the entire thyroid, and in some cases nearby lymph nodes may also need to be evaluated or removed.
The board-certified surgeons at Premier Surgical Associates provide specialized thyroid and endocrine surgery for patients across East Tennessee, with locations convenient to Knoxville, Cleveland, Johnson City, and surrounding communities.
Learn more about our thyroid and endocrine surgery services.
Concerned about a thyroid nodule or need a surgical consultation? Request an appointment with Premier Surgical Associates today.