Symptom 3: Difficulty Swallowing
A somewhat less common, but no less significant, symptom of MTC is difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia. As the thyroid tumor enlarges, it can cause compression on the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. This can lead to dysphagia, which can be distressing and impact your quality of life.
Difficulty swallowing can manifest in various ways, including a sensation of food stuck in the throat, pain or discomfort while swallowing, or a feeling of choking on food or liquids. In some cases, it may also lead to weight loss due to reduced food intake.
While this symptom is usually associated with more advanced cases of MTC, it’s worth noting that not everyone with dysphagia has MTC. Other conditions, like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or esophagitis, can also cause difficulty swallowing.
However, if you’re experiencing persistent difficulty swallowing, especially if accompanied by other symptoms discussed in this article, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. This is particularly true if you have a known family history of MTC or other types of thyroid cancer, as genetic factors can increase your risk. (3)
