7. Enlarged Lymph Nodes: An Important Indication of Thyroid Cancer
Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck can be a significant symptom of thyroid cancer. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that produce and store cells that fight infection. Enlargement of these nodes often suggests an ongoing infection or illness, but it can also indicate certain types of cancers, including thyroid cancer.
Initially, the lymph nodes might slightly enlarge, barely noticeable unless one is actively feeling the neck area. Often, these changes might be mistaken for a simple infection or an immune response to a common illness such as the flu.
However, persistent swelling of lymph nodes, particularly in the absence of an infection, could be a red flag. This is especially true if accompanied by other symptoms on this list, such as a lump in the neck, changes in voice, or persistent cough.
A medical examination and possibly an ultrasound or a biopsy would be necessary to investigate the cause of the enlarged lymph nodes. If thyroid cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, it might change the treatment strategy, making it even more crucial to identify this symptom early on. (7)
