It is the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, produces hormones. This cancer usually presents as a swelling or nodule in the neck. It may not show many symptoms in the early stages. Thyroid cancer, It is more common in women. Radiation, genetic factors and iodine deficiency may increase the risk. Treatment options include surgery, radioactive iodine and hormone therapy. Treatment success is high with early diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer?
The most common symptom is a painless swelling or mass in the front of the neck, where the thyroid gland is located. Growing thyroid nodules can put pressure on the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow. Nerves near the thyroid gland are affected, causing problems with the vocal cords, which can lead to permanent hoarseness. In some cases, pain can occur in the neck or throat area. The pain can radiate to the jaw and ears.
Thyroid cancer As it progresses, difficulty breathing may occur. This occurs as a result of pressure on the trachea (windpipe). Rapid growth or sudden changes in thyroid nodules may be a sign of cancer. An unexplained and persistent cough can sometimes be a symptom. It can spread to the lymph nodes in the neck and cause swelling there. It may not usually show symptoms in the early stages. Early diagnosis and treatment are very important.
What Causes Thyroid Cancer?
The risk is higher in people with a family history of this condition. Medullary thyroid cancer Some types are associated with genetic mutations. It can be inherited. Radiation therapy to the head, neck or chest area during childhood increases the risk. Iodine deficiency or excessive iodine consumption can disrupt thyroid function, leading to nodule formation and cancer risk. It is more common in women than men. Women between the ages of 30 and 60 are especially at greater risk.
Autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and thyroid nodules may increase the risk. Conditions such as pregnancy and birth control pills affect the growth of thyroid cells. Obesity and unhealthy diets can increase the risk by causing hormonal imbalances in the body. Exposure to one or more of these factors, thyroid cancer Early diagnosis and regular check-ups increase the success of treatment by ensuring that the disease is detected at an early stage.
How Is Thyroid Cancer Treated?
Surgery is the main treatment for removing cancerous thyroid tissue. Thyroidectomy or lobectomy may be performed. Radiofrequency ablation is a thermal destruction procedure used for small thyroid nodules. Radioactive iodine is used to destroy any remaining thyroid cells after surgery. Hormone therapy is used to regulate hormone levels after surgery.
Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. In advanced stages, drug therapy is used to stop the growth of cancer cells. Targeted therapy targets cancer cells. It is a treatment with drugs that do not harm healthy cells. Thyroid cancer After treatment, regular follow-up is done with doctor check-ups and imaging tests.
