Thyroid cancer is cancer that leads to excessive growth of cells that develop in the thyroid. A small butterfly-shaped gland located below the lower front of the neck is called the thyroid. The thyroid is responsible for controlling metabolism, which helps to regulate the heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Thyroid cancer develops when the cell changes and starts developing in your thyroid. Moreover, there comes a point when the cells are developed more than is required, which causes a tumour in the thyroid. Initially, cancer may not show any signs. However, as it develops, it may show symptoms like neck enlargement, voice changes, and trouble swallowing.
Types of Thyroid Cancer
- Papillary Thyroid
Papillary Thyroid Cancer is among the most curable cancers. Since it is curable, this type of thyroid cancer is one of the most common cancers that affect 80% to 85% of all diagnoses. Although it often spreads to the lymph nodes in your neck, it usually grows slowly. You still stand a strong chance of making a full recovery.
- Follicular Thyroid
The follicular thyroid makes up between 10% to 15% of other cancers. Additionally, this cancer is more harmful than papillary and it passes to other body parts through the bloodstream. Follicular thyroid also develops a rare form of cancer which is known as Hurthle cell cancer which is more aggressive.
- Medullary Thyroid
According to the American Thyroid Association, this accounts for less than 3% of thyroid cancers. Lymph nodes are typically the site of its propagation. Due to the fact that it produces the hormone called calcitonin, which doctors look for in blood test results, it is more likely to be discovered at an early stage.
- Anaplastic Thyroid
The prognosis for this type of cancer is worse, and it often develops chemoresistance over time. It is the most uncommon and challenging to treat.
Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is usually unnoticeable in the beginning with no warnings. Moreover, it becomes noticeable when it starts developing in the thyroid glands. The most common symptoms you can start observing are swelling in the neck, change in voice and swallowing.
Numerous of these symptoms might also be brought on by other neck conditions or non-cancerous disorders. This is why if you experience any of these thyroid cancer signs mentioned below, you should see a doctor right away.
- Swollen Neck
One of the top indicators of a swollen neck or a lump or nodule near the base of the neck. Although, it is not necessarily cancerous and only some amount of lump can lead to cancer. It is advisable to see a doctor and let him/ her examine before jumping into the conclusion.
- A Hoarse Voice
Temporary change or shifts in voices are not part of concern. However, if there is an unusual and continuous change in voice for no obvious reasons then it is important to consult a doctor. z
- Trouble Swallowing
When an oesophageal tumour presses against the thyroid’s back, swallowing becomes challenging. Some people struggle to swallow because they feel a tightness in their throat.
- Coughing and Breathing Problem
In some circumstances, the growth of tumour grows to the size of oesophagus, this causes breathing issue and chronic cough. Therefore, this leads to that is more severe and has spread to adjacent organs.
Causes of Thyroid Cancer
However, there are no specific reasons regarding the development of cancer in thyroid glands but some factors increase the chances of its development.
Inherent Genetic Syndrome: DNA alterations in thyroid cells lead to the development of cancer.
Radiation Exposure: If the head or neck are subjected to radiation treatment, this is referred to as radiation exposure.
Iodine Deficiency: Cancer may be more prone to occur in people who do not consume enough iodine in their diet.
