Fact 5: Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer – Recognizing the Red Flags
Thyroid cancer is often referred to as a ‘silent’ disease because it doesn’t typically cause symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, noticeable symptoms begin to appear. Recognizing these symptoms can prompt an early diagnosis, which is key to successful treatment.
A lump in the neck, often painless, is the most common symptom of thyroid cancer. This lump, or nodule, is typically situated at the front of the neck near the Adam’s apple. It’s not always possible to feel a smaller thyroid nodule, but as it grows, it can become visible and even cause discomfort or pain.
One of the more distinctive symptoms of thyroid cancer is a change in voice. This occurs when the cancer involves the larynx, or voice box, and can result in hoarseness or other voice changes. These alterations in voice are significant and typically persist, differing from the temporary voice changes that might occur due to a common cold or laryngitis.
Swallowing can become difficult if the thyroid nodule grows large enough to press on the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. This pressure can make it feel like food is stuck in the throat or cause discomfort or pain when swallowing. (5)
