Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr D S K Sahitya

Thyroid Cancer Symptoms

Thyroid cancer can grow without showing any signs at first, which makes it difficult to find out in the early stages. However, noticing early symptoms is important, as it can help in getting diagnosed quickly and could lead to better treatment results.

In this guide, we explain the common signs of thyroid cancer, its progression and when to seek medical help.

What is Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the thyroid gland, which is a small organ shaped like a butterfly and found at the front of your neck. The thyroid is important because it helps regulate metabolism, growth and hormonal balance. Although thyroid cancer can often be treated successfully, especially if detected early, it's important to be aware of the signs that could indicate a problem.

How Thyroid Cancer Develops?

Thyroid cancer begins when thyroid cells undergo genetic mutations, causing them to multiply rapidly and form a tumor. Over time, this tumor can grow large enough to cause noticeable symptoms or spread to other parts of the body like lymph nodes, lungs or bones.

Early Signs of Thyroid Cancer

Many early cases of thyroid cancer don’t show any obvious symptoms. However, as the tumor grows, some changes may start to become noticeable.

Lump in the Neck or Throat

One of the most common early signs is a painless bump or swelling at the bottom of your neck. You might notice it when you’re shaving or putting on makeup.

Hoarseness or Voice Changes

If the tumor affects nearby nerves, especially one that helps control your voice, you might experience changes in how you sound like a persistent hoarse voice.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

You might see that the lymph nodes in your neck are larger than normal, especially if cancer is starting to spread.

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer in Females

Women may notice extra changes in their hormones, alterations in their menstrual cycles or they might find a lump in their neck while doing regular self-checks, since thyroid cancer is more common in females.

Advanced Thyroid Cancer Symptoms

As thyroid cancer worsens, some symptoms might become more noticeable and can interfere with daily life.

Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing

If a tumour grows, it may press on the windpipe or the throat, making it hard to breathe or swallow easily and this can be uncomfortable or painful.

Persistent Neck or Throat Pain

If you experience persistent pain in the front of your neck or if the pain spreads to your jaw or ears, it could be a sign that the disease has progressed.

Fatigue and Unexplained Weight Changes

Feeling extremely tired all the time, along with unexpected weight gain or loss, may be caused by changes in how the thyroid works.

Can Thyroid Cancer Cause Weight Gain?

It can happen, especially if the thyroid stops working properly because of the tumor or its treatment. When the thyroid isn’t active enough, it can slow down the body’s metabolism, which may lead to weight gain.

Signs That Thyroid Cancer Has Spread

When thyroid cancer spreads beyond the thyroid gland, it can affect nearby lymph nodes, lungs, bones or other organs. Recognising the warning signs early is important for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Possible signs that thyroid cancer has spread include:

If you or someone you know with thyroid cancer develops any of these symptoms, prompt medical evaluation is essential.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Cancer

If you are diagnosed with thyroid cancer, several treatment options are available. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer and your health conditions.

Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for thyroid cancer. The surgeon may remove part or all of the thyroid gland, depending on the size and location of the tumour. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy is used to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells after surgery. This treatment involves taking a radioactive iodine pill, which is absorbed by the thyroid cells and destroys them.

External Radiation Therapy

External radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. This treatment is typically used for more advanced thyroid cancers or when surgery is not an option.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. This treatment is usually reserved for more advanced cases of thyroid cancer that have spread to other parts of the body.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy involves using drugs that specifically target cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. This treatment can be effective for certain types of thyroid cancer.

Difference Between Thyroid Nodule and Cancer

Not all thyroid nodules are cancerous. Here’s a quick comparison:

A fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

When to See a Doctor for Thyroid Symptoms

See your doctor if you notice:

Early evaluation can help rule out cancer or ensure timely treatment if needed.

Conclusion

Thyroid cancer is often subtle in the beginning but can become serious if ignored. Being aware of symptoms like neck lumps, voice changes and breathing difficulties, can lead to early detection. If you notice anything unusual, please talk to your doctor right away.

Frequently Asked Questions