Are you troubled by thyroid nodules?

With the improvement of people's living standards and the increase in their attention to health, the detection rate of thyroid nodules is getting higher and higher. Especially in recent years, thyroid ultrasound examination has been used as a routine physical examination item. Every year, a large number of people are diagnosed with thyroid nodules. When you hold the examination report and see "thyroid nodules, follow-up recommended", you will feel very entangled. Many people will panic. How far is the nodule from cancer?

When thyroid cells proliferate abnormally and appear lumpy, thyroid nodules are formed. Some nodules contain solid tissue, while others are filled with fluid. Most thyroid nodules are asymptomatic, and many are discovered during physical examinations. Common types of thyroid nodules are hyperplasia, cysts, adenomas, inflammation, and tumors. Common benign thyroid nodules include: hyperplastic nodular goiter, benign thyroid tumors, thyroid cysts, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, etc. Common malignant thyroid nodules include: papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular cell carcinoma, medullary carcinoma, anaplastic carcinoma, etc.

Why do you get thyroid nodules?

The occurrence of thyroid nodules is mainly related to lifestyle and environmental factors. Autoimmune factors, genetic factors, iodine deficiency or high-iodine diet, environmental pollution, lack of certain enzymes in the body, excessive stress or long-term anxiety or depression, and abnormal body metabolism can all lead to thyroid nodules. At the same time, there are also many clinical thyroid diseases, such as thyroid degenerative lesions, inflammation, autoimmunity, and neoplasms, which can manifest as nodules. Women and middle-aged and elderly people are the most susceptible groups, and most patients are found during physical examinations and have no significant symptoms, such as hoarseness and difficulty swallowing.

Do thyroid nodules require surgery?

If you have a thyroid nodule, the key is to rule out thyroid cancer. If thyroid cancer is confirmed, surgical treatment is generally recommended. Thyroid cancer is relatively low in malignancy, which means that it grows slowly and is not prone to distant metastasis. Surgical treatment is very effective. As long as the surgery is done in time, it is generally not life-threatening. If it is considered a benign nodule, follow-up examinations are sufficient. It is not recommended to have surgical treatment in advance because there is a slight possibility of malignancy in the future. If the nodule is particularly large and compression symptoms have appeared, such as affecting breathing, swallowing and other functions, surgical treatment can be performed.

What should you pay attention to when you have thyroid nodules?

1. Pay attention to dietary adjustments: avoid excessive intake of iodine, increase the intake of vitamins and minerals, and reduce the intake of caffeine.

2. Strengthen exercise: promote body metabolism, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance immunity and physical fitness.

3. Avoid overwork: avoid staying up late for long periods of time, avoid bad living habits, and avoid overwork.

4. Pay attention to emotional regulation: reduce anxiety and stress, avoid emotional out-of-control, and maintain a positive attitude.

Thyroid nodules are not terrible, nor are they incurable. Many people do not need to be too nervous when they find thyroid nodules during physical examinations. As long as they are discovered in time and treated appropriately, patients can gain greater benefits.