Thyroid Nodules and Surgery

Thyroid nodules usually do not cause symptoms, but some symptoms include:

• Pain – if there is bleeding into the nodule or inflammation.
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing – if the thyroid gland or nodule is large.
• Hyperthyroidism symptoms like heat intolerance, fast heart rate, weight loss and tremors – if the nodule produces excessive thyroid hormone.
• Hypothyroidism symptoms including cold intolerance, lethargy, weight gain and weakness – if less thyroid hormone is produced.
• Hoarseness – if there is a cancer invading the nerve supplying your vocal cords. This symptom warrants immediate attention.