Symptom 4: Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing – More Than Just Discomfort
Swallowing and breathing are such automatic actions that we hardly give them a thought – until they become challenging. Difficulties in breathing or swallowing can be a sign of thyroid cancer recurrence.
If the cancer has recurred and resulted in a significant growth or swelling in the neck, it can impede normal breathing and swallowing. These actions might become uncomfortable, or you may feel as if there’s a constant lump in your throat.
Again, it’s crucial to consider these symptoms in context. If you’ve previously been treated for thyroid cancer and these symptoms appear without a clear cause, such as a respiratory infection or allergies, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Early diagnosis of thyroid cancer recurrence can significantly improve the outcome and provide a wider range of treatment options. So, if you notice any difficulties in breathing or swallowing, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. (4)