Goiter (Thyroid Enlargement) in Gurnee & Libertyville
A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland—a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism, growth, and energy. While small goiters may cause no symptoms, larger ones can lead to throat pressure, swallowing difficulty, or visible neck swelling. At Lake County ENT, we evaluate the cause and create a personalized treatment plan to keep your thyroid and overall health in balance.
What it is
An enlarged thyroid gland that may occur from hormonal imbalance, nodules, or inflammation.
Who it affects
More common in women, older adults, and those with iodine deficiency, autoimmune thyroid disease, or a family history of thyroid problems.
How we help
Comprehensive thyroid evaluation, imaging, and customized care—from monitoring to surgery when needed.
Noticed neck fullness or pressure when swallowing? Schedule a thyroid evaluation today.
Common Symptoms
- Visible swelling or lump in the lower neck
- Tightness, pressure, or discomfort when swallowing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Difficulty breathing—especially when lying down
- Cough or throat-clearing from compression
- Occasional pain or tenderness in the neck
Why It Happens
- Iodine deficiency: Rare in the U.S. but common globally.
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: An autoimmune cause leading to inflammation and enlargement.
- Graves’ disease: Overactive thyroid stimulating growth.
- Thyroid nodules or cysts: Multiple or solitary growths within the gland.
- Hormonal imbalance: Including pregnancy or menopause-related thyroid changes.
When to call us: If you notice a lump in your neck, difficulty swallowing, or a choking sensation when lying down.
Call 911 for sudden swelling, severe shortness of breath, or new trouble breathing at rest.
How We Diagnose a Goiter
Our Evaluation
We start with a focused exam and medical history, checking for thyroid enlargement, tenderness, or signs of compression.
- Physical neck and thyroid exam
- Review of symptoms and thyroid medication history
- Assessment for family thyroid disease or radiation exposure
Tests We May Use
- Thyroid function tests: TSH, T3, and T4 levels to check hormone balance.
- Ultrasound imaging: Maps the size, shape, and presence of nodules or cysts.
- Fine-needle aspiration (FNA): Samples tissue if nodules appear suspicious.
- CT or MRI: In cases of large goiters or deep neck compression.
Concerned about a thyroid lump? We’ll evaluate it safely and clearly explain your options.
Treatment Options
Medical Management
- Observation: Small, symptom-free goiters may just need regular monitoring.
- Medication: Thyroid hormone therapy can shrink goiters caused by imbalance.
- Radioiodine treatment: Used in certain cases to reduce thyroid size and activity.
- Addressing autoimmune disease: Treating the underlying thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.
Surgical Treatment
- Thyroidectomy: Removal of part or all of the thyroid if the goiter is large, symptomatic, or suspicious for cancer.
- Minimally invasive techniques: Smaller incisions and faster recovery when appropriate.
- Follow-up care: Hormone levels are closely monitored after surgery to maintain balance.
We’ll help you understand whether observation, medication, or surgery is right for you.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Visit Steps
- Listen & evaluate: Discuss symptoms, history, and concerns.
- Exam & imaging: Physical exam and ultrasound if needed.
- Plan together: Personalized next steps for testing or treatment.
Good to Know
- Most goiters are benign and manageable with proper follow-up.
- We collaborate closely with endocrinologists when needed.
- Our goal is both health and comfort—relieving symptoms and easing worry.
Questions about thyroid enlargement or treatment options? Talk to our ENT team today.
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Ready for peace of mind about your thyroid? Our team will provide clear answers and compassionate care.