Thyroid cancer symptoms are not always easy to detect, which occasionally makes it hard to diagnose as well. However, all symptoms are not necessarily caused by thyroid cancer at all, but rather by a thyroid nodule. And thyroid nodules are not always cancerous--as a matter of fact, nearly all of them are benign and develop later in life. The following are some symptoms of thyroid cancer that can start as nodules and develop into something more serious.
● Lumps in the neck: While not every nodule is big enough to cause a recognizable lump, you may be able to feel it. You may notice it when swallowing. The best way to detect and determine if this is dangerous is to have a doctor check it out.
● Swollen lymph nodes: If you notice your lymph nodes in your neck are swollen and you don’t have any other symptoms, this could be a sign of something bigger. Lymph nodes generally are only swollen when the body is infected with a virus.
● Hoarse voice: Your thyroid gland sits just below the larynx (more commonly known as your voice box). A thyroid nodule (which may be cancerous) may be pressing on the voice box, causing hoarseness or voice changes. This is an uncommon way that thyroid cancer is detected.
● Difficulty Swallowing: The thyroid is on top of the windpipe. A developing thyroid cancer may put pressure on your trachea, making breathing more difficult. Your esophagus is below your trachea, so again, a developing thyroid cancer can cause trouble swallowing. This is also an uncommon way that thyroid cancer is detected.
● Throat Pain: Similar to neck pain, if you have throat pain that won't go away, you should go to see your doctor. It's a possible symptom of thyroid cancer.
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