Thyroid Cancer Symptoms

In its early stages, thyroid cancer does not exhibit any specific symptoms. A small lump or a nodule in the neck can be counted as an indication of the developing disease; however, most of the thyroid nodules are non-cancerous. Nodules are caused by many benign conditions, of which only one per cent is cancerous.Symptom of Thyroid CancerAs the cancer cells grow and involve other tissues of the neck, it may cause the symptoms mentioned below.Lump or nodule in neck: A lump in the front of the neck, just beneath the Adam's apple, is the foremost sign of thyroid cancer. Usually, the lumps or nodules grow slowly but in some cases they increase in size within no time. On touching the lump or nodule, you may get an impression that the entire thyroid is moving.Pain in the throat or neck – Compression by lump, involvement of nerve in neck and other tissues of the neck may cause pain in the throat or neck. Sometimes, pain of neck radiates further to the ears.Increase in size of lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes or gradual increase in the size of lymph nodes is indicative of developing cancer.Difficulty to speak or hoarseness:  involves and invades the adjacent tissues, having an impact on the nerve of the larynx (or voice box). As a result, one may have hoarseness or find it difficult to speak.Difficulty to swallow: The lump in the neck can compress the oesophagus (food pipe); to cause a choking feeling or one may find it difficult to swallow. Swallowing problems are common when the nerve to oesophagus is invaded due to the cancer growth.Difficulty to breathe: The nodule or lump in neck may compress the trachea (wind pipe) to cause breathing difficulties. One may experience breathing problems if the nerve to trachea gets affected by the cancer growth.The aforementioned signs, which include a lump, or thyroid nodule, swallowing trouble, neck pain, swollen lymph nodes and vocal changes, are indicative of thyroid cancer. These symptoms of thyroid cancer can vary from patient to patient.They are not sure signs of thyroid cancer as many other medical conditions such as infection, a benign goitre or another problem can cause similar symptoms. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor if you suspect any of these symptoms. The doctor will identify the cause of your symptoms and will advise you accordingly.