Goiter refers to enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be caused by several conditions, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. This condition is usually treated with medication, radioactive iodine, and surgery or thyroidectomy. Mumps is usually defined as an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, which will appear as nodules or lumps at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple.
The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck. It is an endocrine butterfly-shaped gland associated with the production of hormones - thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Both hormones regulate the rate of metabolism. The function of the thyroid gland is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
The thyroid gland may enlarge due to several factors. More commonly, it is caused by a deficiency of iodine, which is needed by the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency can affect the function of the gland, and cause hypothyroidism, which is characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones. This in turn, can cause enlarged glands.
Such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland) can also cause the thyroid gland to enlarge. Besides this, some other possible causes are, chronic thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease, Graves' disease, thyroid inflammation or thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, multinodular goiter, pregnancy, and thyroid cancer.
Swelling or nodules or lumps at the base of the neck are the most common signs or symptoms of mumps. In some cases, this may be the only symptom, especially if the condition is not related to the type of hormone imbalance. The following are common signs and symptoms of these conditions:
Doctors usually do a thyroid scan, which can provide insight into the nature and size of the thyroid gland. A case of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can be detected with the help of a thyroid scan. Blood tests are also performed to determine the levels of thyroid hormones. Other diagnostic tests are used for this condition is, antibody tests, ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the thyroid gland.
Doctors initially adopted a policy of 'wait and watch', if the goiter is small and not growing in size. But if it is large and growing, and also may cause difficulty in swallowing and breathing, this condition be treated immediately. Treatment to a large extent depends on the underlying cause. If it is caused by hypothyroidism, the levothyroxine can be used. On the other hand, radioactive iodine is used to treat an overactive thyroid gland. Another option is surgery of the thyroid gland or thyroidectomy, which can be total or partial. A thyroidectomy is the preferred choice for the treatment of thyroid cancer, and large and nodular goiter.
The incidence of goiter caused by iodine deficiency can be derived by iodized salt was included in the diet, or by consuming seafood and seaweed. But if excess iodine is the cause of this condition, the consumption of seafood, iodized salt, and seaweed should be limited. However, it is important to consult with a physician in observing one of the symptoms of mumps, because prompt treatment can help prevent complications associated with this condition.