The earlier thyroid cancer is detected, the more successfully it can be treated. Unfortunately, thyroid cancer has few or no symptoms in many cases. However, people should be alert to any of the following:
- Lump or nodule in the front of the neck. Since the thyroid gland is close to the skin, this may be the first clue. However, several types of tumors can develop in the thyroid, and most of them are not cancer.
- Enlargement of the thyroid or swelling in the neck
- Pain in the front of the neck, occasionally stretching to the ears
- Change in voice or hoarseness
- Breathing problems, especially the feeling that you are breathing through a straw
- Cough that does not go away and is not caused by a cold
- Cough with blood
- Swallowing problems
You should talk to your doctor immediately if you have any of the above symptoms.
Last reviewed on 6/4/09
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