Thyroid Nodules in Gurnee & Libertyville
A thyroid nodule is a small growth within the thyroid gland—a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck that helps regulate metabolism and energy. Most nodules are benign and cause no symptoms, but some may grow, affect thyroid function, or (rarely) be cancerous. At Lake County ENT, we evaluate nodules with a gentle, step-by-step approach so you know exactly what you’re dealing with and what to do next.
What it is
A solid or fluid-filled lump in the thyroid. Many are harmless and don’t require treatment—others need monitoring or biopsy.
Who it affects
Common in adults—especially women—and often found incidentally on imaging or routine exams.
How we help
Neck exam, ultrasound, lab tests, and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy when indicated—plus clear follow-up and treatment plans.
Found a neck lump or had a thyroid nodule on imaging? We’ll evaluate it and guide you step by step.
Possible Symptoms
- Neck lump you can see or feel
- Fullness, pressure, or trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Thyroid dysfunction symptoms (rare): fatigue, weight or temperature intolerance, palpitations
- Often no symptoms—found incidentally
Why Nodules Form
- Overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue (colloid nodules)
- Cysts (fluid-filled)
- Inflammation (thyroiditis)
- Overactive “hot” nodules producing excess hormone
- Less commonly, thyroid cancer
When to call us: A new or enlarging neck lump, trouble swallowing, persistent hoarseness, or abnormal thyroid labs.
Call 911 for sudden breathing trouble or rapidly growing neck swelling with distress.
How We Diagnose Thyroid Nodules
Our Evaluation
- Head & neck exam to assess size, firmness, and mobility
- Ultrasound to characterize the nodule (solid vs cystic, margins, calcifications)
- Thyroid blood tests as needed (TSH and related labs)
Tests We May Use
- Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy: In-office, ultrasound-guided sampling for cytology
- Molecular testing: Helps clarify indeterminate biopsy results
- CT/MRI or radioiodine scan: For select cases (large goiter, retrosternal extension, or hyperfunction)
Unsure if your nodule needs a biopsy? We’ll review your ultrasound and explain the next best step.
Treatment Options
Monitoring & Medical Care
- Benign, low-risk nodules: Periodic ultrasound to watch for changes
- Thyroid medication only when indicated for hormone imbalance
- Drainage of symptomatic cysts if they recur
Procedures & Surgery
- FNA biopsy: Quick, in-office test to assess cancer risk
- Hemithyroidectomy or thyroidectomy: For suspicious, cancerous, or compressive nodules/goiter
- Close coordination with endocrinology for comprehensive care
What to Expect at Your Visit
Visit Steps
- Listen & evaluate: Review symptoms and prior imaging
- Exam & ultrasound: Same-day imaging when possible
- Plan together: Observe, biopsy, or treat—based on risk and preferences
Good to Know
- Most nodules are benign and simply monitored
- Biopsy is a needle test, not an operation, and recovery is minimal
- When surgery is needed, outcomes are excellent with experienced ENT care
Clarity starts with a good ultrasound. We’ll review results with you and make a clear plan.
FAQs
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Have a thyroid nodule? Get a clear diagnosis and a plan you can feel confident about.