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Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules are lumps within the thyroid gland. They are very common, usually harmless, but sometimes need checking to rule out cancer or an overactive nodule.
Causes & risk factors
- Overgrowth of thyroid tissue
- Iodine deficiency in some regions
- Fluid-filled cysts
- Thyroid inflammation
- Rarely, thyroid cancer
Common symptoms
- A lump felt in the front of the neck
- Often no symptoms — found by chance
- Difficulty swallowing if large
- Hoarseness or cough
- Palpitations if the nodule is overactive
Tests & diagnosis
- Thyroid ultrasound
- TSH
- Thyroid function (TFT)
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy
- Thyroid scan if overactive
Treatment & management
- Monitoring with ultrasound if small and benign
- Biopsy to check suspicious nodules
- Treating an overactive nodule (medicines, radioactive iodine or surgery)
- Surgery if cancer is suspected or the nodule is large
- Regular follow-up
When to see a doctor urgently
- A rapidly enlarging neck lump
- A hard or fixed lump, or swollen neck glands
- Hoarse voice or trouble swallowing
- Palpitations, weight loss and heat intolerance
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about thyroid nodules. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Are thyroid nodules cancer?
Most are not — only a small proportion are cancerous. Ultrasound and, when needed, a fine-needle biopsy help tell benign from suspicious nodules.
Do all nodules need removing?
No. Small, benign nodules are usually just monitored. Removal is for suspicious, large or overactive nodules.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.