As a thyroid nodule specialist in Singapore, I frequently encounter patients concerned about the discovery of thyroid nodules. They are growths within the thyroid gland and commonly detected during routine health check-ups or through ultrasound. While the majority of thyroid nodules are benign, a small percentage can be malignant, needing evaluation and monitoring. Patients often ask about the implications of having a nodule, the potential need for biopsy, and the appropriate follow-up care.
An Introduction to Thyroid Nodules Awareness and Prevalence FAQs
Whether you have thyroid nodule disease or suspect that you have it, you'll likely have a number of questions, including understanding how the nodules occurred, whether they're cancerous, and what can be done to offer treatment.
At Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, we understand your concerns and are here to answer some of your most frequently asked questions.
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1. When to worry about thyroid nodules?
First, it's important to understand that there are different types of thyroid nodules. Many will simply exist – while others can be cancerous. You will want a biopsy conducted if there is worry – or if the thyroid nodule is growing in size or impeding your ability to swallow comfortably.
2. Can a cancerous thyroid nodule cause no symptoms?
When a cancerous thyroid nodule is small, you're likely to encounter no symptoms at all. It's only when it starts to grow that you may encounter a few symptoms, which can include:
- Pain in the throat/larynx
- Hoarse voice
- Weight gain/loss
- Sensitivity to heat
- Muscle weakness
If you encounter any of these symptoms, you'll want to discuss thyroid nodule disease with your doctor.
3. Can thyroid nodules cause AFib?
The presence of thyroid nodules is an indication of thyroid disease. This disease is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation. So, it is possible that nodules can lead to aFib at some point.
4. Can thyroid nodules grow bigger?
Yes. A thyroid nodule clinic will likely have you come in annually for an ultrasound once the presence of nodules are identified. This will allow a medical professional to keep an eye on the size. If they are growing bigger, you can discuss thyroid nodule treatment options.
5. Can you have a nodule without thyroid disease?
Even without thyroid disease, it is possible to have nodules. This may be caused by autoimmune problems, and it may even be hereditary.
6. Should I see an endocrinologist for thyroid nodules?
Yes! You'll want to find out if you have thyroid nodules, which begins with an ultrasound to help with the diagnostics as well as imaging. Once the shape and size of the nodules are identified, it may be necessary to have a biopsy performed. This will allow you to find out if cancer is present.
7. How many thyroid nodules are normal?
Thyroid nodules are relatively normal, but the quantity of nodules can vary from person to person. While one person may only have one, another may have three or four.
8. Are thyroid nodules common?
Particularly if you have hypothyroidism, nodules are relatively common. It's why your doctor is likely to recommend thyroid nodule management. Even if they don't exist now, they could show up in a year or two – and knowing when they appear is critical to your overall health.
9. How often are thyroid nodules cancerous?
Many university studies have identified that about 5 to 10% of thyroid nodules are malignant and/or cancerous.
While it's not too common for thyroid nodules to become cancerous, there's always a risk. If you want to reduce the risk and avoid the nodules growing in size, you can explore radiofrequency ablation, also known as RFA.
10. Do thyroid nodules increase in size?
The size of a nodule is measured in millimeters. It is possible for them to increase in size. Typically, malignant nodules will grow faster, which is typically 2 mm or more per year.
11. Do thyroid nodules move around?
Depending on where they are located in the thyroid region, the nodules can move. Most commonly, they'll move up and down when you swallow.
12. Meet with a Thyroid Nodule Specialist and Professional in Singapore
When you have questions about thyroid nodules and believe that you may have a medical issue, it's important to speak with a medical professional. This will allow you to get diagnosed and even learn about the various minimally invasive treatment options that are available.
When you are searching for a thyroid nodule specialist, Dr. Manish Taneja at the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic in Singapore is here to help you. Contact us to arrange your appointment.
Read More About Thyroid Nodules on Our Blog
To dive deeper into the types of thyroid nodule treatments, head over to our clinic’s blog.
Read our recommended thyroid nodule related blog posts to stay informed.
Other Health Conditions
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic is your "go-to" facility for various vascular conditions and pain management. To arrange an appointment with Dr. Manish Taneja, our vascular specialist, contact us. You can also call us at (+65) 6904 8084 for a consultation.