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Thyroid Cancer: What symptoms should we prevent ourselves from?

Thyroid Cancer: What symptoms should we prevent ourselves from?

Top Doctors
Top Doctors editorial
Top Doctors
Created by: Top Doctors editorial
Edited by: TOP DOCTORS® at 07/06/2021

Thyroid Cancer can lead to Thyroid Nodules, that is, lesions whose volume and consistency is different from the parenchyma that surrounds them. However, these nodules are not always malignant.


What is thyroid cancer?

Thyroid Cancer is a common disease in Chile. This condition occurs when cells with a genetic error accumulate in said gland and, in this way, malignant tumors occur.


Then, as the disease progresses, it branches and expands to nearby nodules and nodes that eventually spread to other organs (Metastasis).


How is Thyroid Cancer diagnosed?

The danger of Thyroid Cancer is that during its early stages it does not carry obvious symptoms, and therefore it can develop without us noticing it. In more advanced stages, it can cause:

- Pain in the neck

- Swelling in the Neck

- Hoarseness or Voice Changes

- Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing

- Constant Cough


Sometimes, Thyroid Nodules also appear, which are lesions that form within this gland and whose consistency and volume is different from the parenchyma that surrounds them. However, these findings are common in the general population and may be a benign condition.


This is why an ultrasound is usually performed, which shows if it is a solid mass, more likely to be Cancer, or if it is filled with fluid.


How to prevent Thyroid Cancer?

First of all, the family history of Thyroid Cancer or inflammatory diseases associated with this organ should be taken into account. Additionally, there are certain factors that we can modify in order to reduce risk, such as:

- Consume iodine

- Avoid Obesity

- Do not expose ourselves to radiation


How is Thyroid Cancer Treated?

Oncologists, Endocrinologists and Surgeons intervene in the treatment of Thyroid Cancer. It may include:

- Radioactive Iodine Therapy

- Thyroid Hormone Therapy

- External Ray Radiotherapy

- Chemotherapy


Likewise, Thyroid Surgery, in addition to being indicated for Benign Tumors that cause pain, shortness of breath, that are large or that cannot be medically controlled, is used to remove Malignant Tumors.


When suspecting this or another condition, it is important to consult a doctor. You can use tools such as Telemedicine. At Top Doctors we have e-Consultation, where you can get an appointment by Videoconsultation or private chat with our different specialists.

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