Can hyperthyroidism cause goitre?

A goitre is an enlarged thyroid gland at the front of the neck. Some causes make the gland overactive, while other goitres occur with normal or low thyroid activity, so neck swelling alone does not establish hyperthyroidism. An overactive thyroid may also cause a racing or irregular heartbeat, heat intolerance, tremor, sweating, anxiety, weight loss or more frequent bowel movements. The swelling can be even or lumpy.

Book a medical appointment for a new or growing neck swelling, a visible fullness, or symptoms suggesting excess thyroid hormone. A clinician may examine the neck and request thyroid blood tests, with imaging or other tests if needed. Mention medicines, supplements, pregnancy plans and any family history of thyroid disease. Do not start iodine or thyroid products without advice.

Seek urgent care for severe difficulty breathing or swallowing, sudden neck swelling, chest pain, fainting, or a very fast or irregular heartbeat with weakness or breathlessness. A goitre that changes quickly, becomes painful, or causes persistent hoarseness should be assessed promptly rather than watched indefinitely.

Ask whether your thyroid is overactive, which tests can identify the cause, whether the swelling needs imaging, and which symptoms mean you should seek urgent help.