The abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland is called Goitre. Goitre causes in normal-functioning (euthyroidism), or under-active (hypothyroidism) or over-active thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).
When a thyroid enlargement is found, it’s important to find the cause. At first, Thyroid Treatment should be done. Depends on the result of the thyroid function tests, your doctor will advise you to go for further tests like thyroid ultrasound, fine needle aspiration biopsy, or radioactive iodine scan.
-> Goitre causes due to iodine deficiency is treated with iodine supplementation. This may reduce the size of goiter, but does not totally resolve.
-> Goitre causes due to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis with Hypothyroidism Treatment is treated with thyroid hormone replacement tablet. Here also goiter may become smaller, but does not completely resolve.
-> Goitre causes due to Grave’s disease can be treated with radioactive iodine. In these cases goitre may disappear.
-> Multi nodular goiters with normal thyroid hormone level do not require specific treatment. But these cases are in risk for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism in future.
-> If the goitre is too big and obstructs the airway, your doctor may suggest surgical removal of goitre.
-> Regular check-up and regular monitoring of thyroid function are very important in case of all goiters.
