The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the thyroid gland grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor.

While thyroid cancer is relatively uncommon, it can be a serious or life-threatening disease.

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer

Most people with thyroid cancer do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, as the tumor grows, symptoms may appear. Some common symptoms of thyroid cancer include:.

A lump or swelling in the neck
Hoarseness or other changes in the voice
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Pain in the neck or throat
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away. While these symptoms may be caused by other conditions, they could also be signs of thyroid cancer.

Treatments for Thyroid Cancer

The treatment for thyroid cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. In most cases, thyroid cancer is treated with surgery to remove the thyroid gland.

Depending on the type of thyroid cancer and the size and location of the tumor, your doctor may recommend a total thyroidectomy (removal of the entire thyroid gland) or a partial thyroidectomy (removal of only part of the thyroid gland).

In addition to surgery, other treatments for thyroid cancer may include:.

Radioactive iodine therapy: This treatment involves taking a pill that contains a small amount of radioactive iodine. The iodine is absorbed by any remaining thyroid cells and destroys them.
External beam radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells. However, chemotherapy is rarely used to treat thyroid cancer.

Your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your individual case.

Preventing Thyroid Cancer

While there is no sure way to prevent thyroid cancer, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk. These include:.

Having regular check-ups with your doctor: Regular check-ups can help detect any abnormalities in your thyroid gland early.
Avoiding exposure to radiation: Radiation exposure is a known risk factor for thyroid cancer. Try to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation, such as radiation therapy for non-cancerous conditions.
Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins may help reduce your risk of thyroid cancer.

It is also important to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these habits have been linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer.

Conclusion

Thyroid cancer is a serious but treatable disease. If you experience any symptoms of thyroid cancer, see your doctor right away. With early detection and treatment, most people with thyroid cancer are able to make a full recovery.

By following a healthy lifestyle and avoiding known risk factors, you can also reduce your risk of developing thyroid cancer.