What is Goiter?

The thyroid gland is a structure that operates for the healthy functioning of each person's metabolism. Goiter is a disease caused by enlargement of the thyroid gland. The most common cause of goiter in our country is that it arises from iodine deficiency. There are goiter diseases that occur as a result of dysfunction of the immune system. This disease can also occur due to iodine deficiency, working conditions of metabolism or nodules formed in the thyroid gland of the person.

Goiter Symptoms

• Swelling in the face and eyes of the patient at certain times,
• Weakness and a constant state of fatigue,
• Rapid and unresponsive hair loss
• Swelling of hands upon waking up in the morning
• Irritability, palpitations
• A noticeable swelling or growth in the neck

Treatment of Goiter Disease

Various treatments of nodules or goiter emerge, depending on the hormone secretion status. Before determining which type of treatment to decide on, the physicians ask the patient for comprehensive analyzes. Thyroid hormone values ​​are checked by requesting a blood test. The condition of the nodules and goiter can be monitored by performing an ultrasound scan on the patient. If the physician deems it necessary, he may also request a scintigraphy. As a result of these assays, the hormones secreted by the nodules and the degree of these hormones are examined and the treatment method is followed accordingly. The type of the nodule is also checked. If the nodules are solid, a biopsy is requested from the patient.

If the nodule is small and does not secrete hormones, drug therapy often responds. If the nodule is large, it is first taken to drug therapy and the hormone values ​​are brought to the desired state. Then, surgery is recommended when it is not possible to treat with iodine or medication. If the nodule is over 4 cm in diameter, goiter surgery is mandatory. In the formation of hyperthyroidism, surgery can be recommended after drug treatment. Although the nodule is small, goiter surgery is recommended in case of awareness and discomfort in the patient. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. 5 cm at the neck of the patient. An incision is made to reach the thyroid gland. Depending on the condition of the disease, part or all of the thyroid gland is removed. After the operation, the probability of experiencing hoarseness, which is feared by the society and a common belief, remains at a minimum level of 3 percent.