People with thyroid cancer may experience signs such as persistent lumps in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and voice changes.
The thyroid gland’s main function is to regulate metabolism, growth and development. Abnormal changes in the thyroid gland can lead to many diseases, including cancer. Early detection through diagnostic tests, especially in people at genetic risk, can improve treatment outcomes. Below are 6 signs that can warn of early-stage thyroid cancer.
Persistent lump or swelling in the neck
One of the most common early signs of thyroid cancer is the appearance of a lump or painless swelling in the neck. Although most thyroid tumors are benign, some can be cancerous. Unlike benign tumors, malignant tumors tend to grow quickly. Therefore, people with these signs need to see a specialist to rule out cancer.
Difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing
Patients may have difficulty swallowing or breathing due to the pressure of the tumor on the esophagus and trachea. The enlarged thyroid gland presses on the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This pressure can make it difficult to swallow, especially hard, large foods. In severe cases, difficulty swallowing may last longer and become more pronounced. Patients may also have difficulty breathing even without exertion when the tumor is large.
Change your voice
If thyroid cancer affects the nerves that control the vocal cords, it can lead to hoarseness or other problems with speaking. These changes may become more noticeable over time, especially as the tumor grows larger.
Neck pain of unknown cause
Persistent pain in the throat not related to a cold or other common illness can also warn of thyroid cancer. This pain is worse if the cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes, leading to further irritation in the neck. Pain in the neck or throat in this case is often persistent and without reason.
Swollen lymph nodes
The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, below the larynx and above the trachea. If cancer develops, this part can cause noticeable swelling in the neck area. This swelling is clearly visible and in some cases, puts pressure on nearby structures, leading to discomfort. Lymph nodes near the thyroid gland swell when thyroid cancer spreads to surrounding tissues.
Chronic cough
A chronic, long-lasting cough unrelated to the common cold or infection can be a warning sign of another illness. This persistent cough, which is often not accompanied by mucus, may be related to irritation caused by a thyroid tumor growing on nearby structures, including the trachea.