Warning Signs Of Thyroid Cancer You Must Never Ignore!

Last Updated on March 23, 2020

Thyroid cancer, what is it really? It’s a form of cancer that appears in the thyroid cells, with thyroid being a gland that sits at the base of the neck, below Adam’s apple. The thyroid is a very important part of our bodies, as it regulates our heart rate, body temperature, weight, as well as blood pressure.

Signs of thyroid problems include fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold temperatures, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, puffy face, hoarseness, and more muscle weakness.

This form of cancer is more frequent and there is one explanation for it: it has always been there, but with recent technology, we have been able to discover and diagnose more forms of thyroid cancer.

Sometimes, people don’t know that they’re suffering from thyroid cancer symptoms, and this is quite normal due to it not manifesting at early stages; as some develop slowly, while other forms of this cancer can be more aggressive.

Let us show you the signs of thyroid cancer that you should never ignore.

1. Lump in The Neck

This symptom is one of the early warning signs of thyroid cancer. The neck shouldn’t have any visible lumps and if you notice one, then you should go see a doctor quickly, especially if said lump in located on the front of your neck, close to Adam’s apple. Do not neglect such symptoms!

2. Change in Your Voice

A hoarse voice can occur due to several reasons, some of them could be signs of thyroid problems and the other is, yes, thyroid cancer.
If your voice is cracking, failing, or if you’re coughing more often, then you should go see a doctor now.

Now you might wonder how this form of cancer can create voice changes, but the thyroid gland lies below the larynx, and if you have a nodule there pressing it, then it will surely affect your voice.

3. Chronic Cough

It’s not normal at all for someone to cough all the time, especially if you don’t have any other problems, like a cold or something of that nature, so you should definitely visit a doctor.

If you have a recurring, dry and scratchy cough, then this might be a sign of thyroid cancer, with the thyroid mass pressing your trachea and creating an uncontrollable, barking-like, dry, scratchy throat cough.

Never ever ignore this sign, it is a serious one.

4. Difficulty Breathing

Unless you’re having an asthma attack, or have any known problem causing this (which in any case you should go check with a doctor), then this can be another sign of thyroid cancer.

This is by far one of the most serious signs, with the tumor spreading and pressing your windpipe, creating breathing problems. It can also be due to large thyroid goiters, but as you might have already guessed, it is a very uncomfortable problem to have; a basic need of yours is faulty and this should not go on without medical intervention.

5. Difficulty Swallowing

As explained earlier, when this form of tumor spreads, it can press your windpipe and then not only affect your breathing but also create difficulties while eating. It may irritate your throat or even cause you to choke on your food.

Whatever your case may be, be it thyroid cancer or thyroid issues, this is a more than enough reason to get checked immediately.

6. Ear Ache

Ear pain is not one of the most common signs of thyroid cancer. However, it’s always safe to check with a doctor.

This can be caused by the vagus nerve, which is a long nerve that runs down your neck and, of course, passes through the thyroid gland. This nerve is responsible for your ear sensations, which sometimes can get cross signals into your brain, processing the pain in your ear. Normally, you might think that it’s just a simple ear infection but, again, go see a doctor!

Now that you know what are the most common signs of thyroid cancer, you should know what to look for if you’re having any doubt, and if it is your case don’t hesitate to see a doctor.

Controlling your thyroid problems and living a healthy lifestyle might help you reduce your chances of such serious health problems in the future

There are diffrent thyroid cancer treatments, with normally this form of cancer being possible to control if it’s diagnosed at early stages. Forms of treatment include surgery being the most common, and chemotherapy being the more rare thyroid cancer treatment.

Lastly, make sure to share this list with friends and family and spread more awareness.