Symptom 6. Recurrent Throat Infections: An Unexpected Connection with Thyroglossal Duct Cysts
One of the indirect ways thyroglossal duct cysts might present themselves is through recurrent throat or upper respiratory infections. While a thyroglossal duct cyst does not directly cause these infections, its presence can exacerbate them or make individuals more susceptible.
The recurrent nature of these infections is often due to the cyst’s response to infection. During an infection, the cyst often becomes inflamed and may fill with pus, increasing its size.
The enlarged cyst can then obstruct the throat, making it more difficult for the body to clear the infection. Moreover, the cyst’s contents, particularly if infected, can harbor bacteria, making it a reservoir for recurrent infections.
Individuals might initially attribute these recurrent infections to other common causes, like seasonal allergies or exposure to infectious agents at places like school or work. However, if the infections persist despite appropriate treatment, it’s worth considering the possibility of an underlying thyroglossal duct cyst. (6)
