A goiter, simply put, is an enlargement of the thyroid gland. While it may or may not be palpable on the side of your neck, it can sometimes go unnoticed. The good news is that in most cases, goiters are benign. However, they can cause problems for certain individuals. If you feel a lump or experience tenderness in your neck, it’s possible that you may have a goiter. Difficulty swallowing is another common symptom. If you suspect a goiter, it’s always important to have it examined by a medical professional. In general, there are several symptoms that may indicate the presence of a goiter.
Signs of Visible Swelling in Your Neck
One of the telltale signs of a goiter is the visible swelling in the neck. Oftentimes, individuals become aware of the enlarged ball in their neck suddenly, although the goiter may have been present for some time. Interestingly, the presence of a goiter can be discovered through everyday activities like applying sun cream or makeup. While the goiter may not be easily visible, it can be felt by running a hand over the sides of the neck. Notably, the goiter is typically palpable from only one side of the neck.
Understanding Stridor in Relation to Goiter
When a goiter grows in size, it exerts pressure on the trachea and esophagus, leading to various symptoms. Stridor is one such symptom that can occur when a goiter becomes excessively large. Stridor is characterized by a wheezing sound that arises when the trachea experiences difficulty allowing air to pass through without any obstruction. If an individual experiences persistent stridor, which cannot be attributed to any other respiratory problem, it may be indicative of a goiter.