Fact 9. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis May Cause Goiter
One of the physical manifestations of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is the potential development of a goiter. But what exactly is a goiter, and how does it relate to Hashimoto’s?
A goiter refers to an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. The term “goiter” merely describes the physical swelling in the neck and does not specify the underlying cause. Many conditions can cause a goiter, and in the case of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, it’s the chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland that often leads to its enlargement.
But how does this work? Under normal conditions, the thyroid gland produces just the right amount of thyroid hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism. However, when the thyroid gland is under attack—as it is in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis—it attempts to compensate for the ongoing damage by growing larger. This enlargement can lead to the formation of a goiter.
The appearance of a goiter can vary widely in individuals with Hashimoto’s. Some people might have a slight enlargement that’s barely noticeable, while others may have a large and visibly swollen neck. (9)
