Guide To The Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Thyroid Nodules

Issues Swallowing Or Breathing

An individual who experiences the development of thyroid nodules may experience issues with swallowing or breathing as a result of their abnormal growth. Problems with breathing and swallowing occur as a direct result of the thyroid gland becoming larger than normal. Thyroid nodules are abnormal growths of the thyroid tissues that cause marked increases in the volume, size, and mass of the organ. Multinodular goiters are notorious for producing physical symptoms related to size. Only around one-third of all cases of thyroid nodules cause symptoms related to swallowing and breathing. Some patients who have a thyroid nodule have described it to cause a sensation that makes them want to swallow repeatedly or have a constant urge to swallow something. When a thyroid nodule compresses the tissues of the throat, a patient may have a frequent urge to cough or clear their throat from partial obstruction or narrowing of the windpipe. Uncomfortable pressure on the trachea that makes the action of breathing tickle or feel abnormal is also a manifestation of thyroid nodules.