Symptom 5. Shortness of Breath: A Less Recognized Symptom of Stage 2 Thyroid Cancer
Another less recognized, but noteworthy symptom of stage 2 thyroid cancer is shortness of breath. The thyroid gland is located close to the windpipe, or trachea. As the tumor grows, it can press against the trachea, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. This pressure can result in experiencing a shortness of breath.
This symptom might manifest as finding yourself out of breath after activities that usually wouldn’t exhaust you, or experiencing breathlessness while at rest. Some people may even feel like they can’t get enough air, leading to frequent deep sighs or yawning.
Given that the thyroid gland is located in the neck, the connection between shortness of breath and thyroid cancer is often overlooked. Many other conditions such as heart disease, lung conditions, anemia, and anxiety disorders can also cause shortness of breath, making it seem less likely that the thyroid could be the culprit. (5)
