Thyroid nodule

Thyroid nodules are lumps which commonly arise within an otherwise normal thyroid gland. Often these abnormal growths of thyroid tissue are located at the edge of the thyroid gland so they can be felt as a lump in the throat. When they are large or when they occur in very thin individuals, they can even sometimes be seen as a lump in the front of the neck.

Thyroid nodules, are extremely common in young adults and children almost 50% of people have had one, but they are usually only detected by a GP during the course of a health examination, or through a different affliction.

Only a small percentage of lumps in the neck are malignant, and most thyroid nodules are benign.

There are many factors to consider when diagnosing a malignant lump.

If the patient is a smoker, the chances of malignancy is considerably higher. Also if the esophagus is swollen, and swallowing is nearly impossible you need to get checked out by a professional straight away.