What Is A Thyroid Cancer? What Are Its Causes And Symptoms?

Thyroid cancer occurs when there is a tumor in the thyroid gland that is located at the base of the throat. These tumors can be of four types which are anaplastic, medullary, follicular or papillary. Once the tumor is removed, there is still a chance that it may recur. The clearest symptom of thyroid cancer is that the thyroid gland node in the neck becomes swollen along with pain in the neck and a change in the voice quality. The main cause of thyroid cancer is “multiple endocrine neoplasa” which means that people who have abnormal genes are more likely to develop it in some point in life and can also run in families. Then people with a bowel related condition called “familial adenomatous polyposis” are at a higher risk of thyroid cancer. People who have low iodine in their bodies are also at a high risk.

A lump, or nodule in the neck -- especially in the front of the neck, in the area of the Adam's apple. (Note: Sometimes, the lump or nodule will be growing quickly.) (Find out how to do a Thyroid Neck Check to look for lumps or enlargement.)

Enlargement of the neck

Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

Hoarseness, difficulty speaking normally, voice changes

Difficulty swallowing, or a choking feeling

Difficulty breathing

Pain in the neck or throat, including pain from the neck to the ears

Sensitivity in the neck -- discomfort with neckties, turtlenecks, scarves, necklaces

Persistent or chronic cough not due to allergies or illness

Asymmetry in the thyroid (big nodule on one side, nothing on the other)