Thyroid nodules are abnormal lumps that form within the thyroid - a small butterfly-shaped organ that is located on the front of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. In many cases, these growths are unnoticeable and do not cause symptoms. Only a small percentage of nodules are cancerous or cause symptoms.

Common symptoms of a large nodule include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty with breathing

Some thyroid nodules produce thyroxine, a hormone usually produced by the thyroid gland. An overproduction of thyroid hormones can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Tremor (trembling in the hands and fingers)
• Diarrhea
• Increased appetite
• Changes in menstrual cycles
• Sensitivity to heat and excessive sweating
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Bulging eyes (common in Grave’s disease)
• Hair loss, or thinning of hair

Even though most thyroid nodules are small and noncancerous, it is important to screen these growths for cancer cells. If the nodule is cancerous, early detection can help improve the efficacy of treatment.

Talk to your doctor if you begin to notice the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Additionally, it is recommended that you seek medical attention if your thyroid nodules have grown large enough to be felt or seen.