What should you know about an enlarged goitre?

The thyroid sits at the front of the neck and makes hormones that influence body processes. A goitre may be smooth or lumpy, and thyroid hormone levels may be high, low or within the usual range. Hyperthyroidism can cause heat intolerance, tremor, sweating and a fast heartbeat, while hypothyroidism may cause cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin and slowed thinking. The swelling itself does not establish the cause.

Arrange a GP consultation for a new, growing or persistent neck swelling. The clinician may feel the thyroid and nearby neck structures, ask about swallowing and breathing, and request a thyroid function test. Further imaging or sampling may be considered when the examination suggests a nodule or another structural concern. Do not start thyroid medicine or supplements without advice.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing swelling, a new hoarse voice, or severe chest pounding with faintness. Arrange prompt review for a hard or fixed lump, persistent neck pain, or swelling that changes noticeably. Breathing and swallowing symptoms are urgent because the enlarged tissue can press on nearby structures.

Ask whether your thyroid hormone levels are high, low or normal, whether the swelling is diffuse or nodular, which tests are needed, and which changes should trigger an earlier review.