Symptoms of thyroid cancer

Written by Gong Chun
Oncology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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The symptoms of thyroid cancer, the first point is the clinical manifestations of differentiated thyroid cancer. Most differentiated thyroid cancers are asymptomatic, with only occasional palpable nodules of varying sizes and textures, which can sometimes be detected in routine physical and imaging examinations. A few advanced thyroid cancers may produce noticeable symptoms due to large nodules or invasion of surrounding organs, such as compression of the trachea causing breathing difficulties, difficulty swallowing due to pressure on the esophagus, and hoarseness due to compression of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The second point concerns the specific clinical manifestations of medullary thyroid carcinoma. The specific symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer include persistent watery diarrhea, not accompanied by severe malabsorption in the large intestine, often with facial flushing, some endocrine syndromes, and some associated conditions such as pheochromocytoma, multiple mucosal neuromas, and parathyroid adenomas.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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Early symptoms of thyroid cancer

In the early stages, most thyroid cancer patients do not exhibit obvious symptoms. A minority of patients may inadvertently find that thyroid nodules grow rapidly and these nodules have slightly limited mobility and mild pain upon palpation. Some patients with medullary thyroid cancer may experience symptoms like facial flushing early on due to abnormal hormone secretion in the body. Additionally, clinical symptoms are not commonly seen in the early stages of thyroid cancer. Only as the disease progresses can symptoms such as neck lumps from regional lymph node metastasis, as well as distant spread, cause clinical symptoms like neck swelling, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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What discomforts can thyroid cancer cause in the body?

Thyroid cancer is a common type of malignant tumor in the head and neck region. In its early stages, thyroid cancer has little effect on the body, and generally does not cause any discomfort. However, as the disease progresses and the tumor invades outward and metastasizes to distant areas, it can lead to various uncomfortable sensations. For example, if thyroid cancer invades surrounding tissues and organs, such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve, the patient may experience symptoms like a hoarse voice and choking while drinking. If thyroid cancer metastasizes to the cervical lymph nodes, the patient may also develop Horner's syndrome, which is characterized by a constricted pupil, drooping eyelid, and absence of sweating on the affected side of the face. If the patient develops superior vena cava syndrome, it can lead to difficulty breathing, chest pain, and swelling of the face and neck. If thyroid cancer metastasizes to the lungs or other distant areas, the patient may also experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, and coughing.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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Can someone with thyroid cancer occasionally eat barbecue?

Patients with thyroid cancer can occasionally eat barbecue, but should limit their intake of such foods. This is because thyroid cancer is a common malignant tumor in the head and neck area, and its exact cause is still unclear. The mechanism of its development is also not clearly understood. However, the high incidence of thyroid cancer is related to certain factors such as radiation, viral infections, or genetic factors, and both iodine deficiency and excess can lead to a high incidence of thyroid cancer. Barbecued foods are not beneficial for the recovery from thyroid cancer, therefore it is clinically advised to reduce intake. However, eating it occasionally does not have a significant impact on the overall health of patients, so it can be consumed in moderation. Additionally, for patients with thyroid cancer, the diet should mainly be easy to digest, non-irritating, and should enhance bodily immune strength.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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Can occasional smoking and drinking be okay with thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer is a common malignant tumor in the head and neck area, and currently, the exact mechanism and etiological causes of thyroid cancer are not clearly defined in the clinic. However, some research studies indicate that there are certain factors associated with the incidence of thyroid cancer. For example, ionizing radiation, prolonged exposure can lead to the occurrence of thyroid cancer. Both insufficient and excessive iodine intake can lead to a high incidence of thyroid cancer. Genetic factors also play a significant role in the development of thyroid cancer. Excessive smoking and drinking can promote the occurrence of thyroid cancer. Therefore, heavy smoking and drinking are not recommended, but occasional smoking and drinking do not significantly impact the condition of thyroid cancer and are deemed acceptable. Moreover, for patients with thyroid cancer, treatment is primarily surgical, as radiotherapy and chemotherapy are not very sensitive anti-tumor treatments.

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Written by Gan Jun
Endocrinology
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Is a hypoechoic area definitely thyroid cancer?

A thyroid nodule underwent an ultrasound B-examination and showed hypoechoic features, but this does not necessarily indicate thyroid cancer. It is essential to conduct relevant tests to determine the cause. For such thyroid nodules, it is first important to check their specific size. If there is concern about the presence of a malignant tumor, it is advisable to perform a fine needle aspiration for pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis. If the thyroid nodule exceeds one centimeter and causes local pain or affects surrounding blood vessels, leading to symptoms of compression, it is recommended that patients should promptly undergo surgical removal for treatment.