What causes goitre?

The thyroid sits at the front of the neck and makes hormones that influence body activity. It may enlarge evenly or contain one or more lumps. Some goitres occur when the gland makes too much hormone, while others occur when it makes too little; some do not change hormone levels. The swelling itself does not identify the cause.

Arrange a medical assessment for a new or growing neck swelling. A clinician may examine the thyroid, check hormone levels and use an ultrasound to assess its structure. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve monitoring, medicine or further assessment. Avoid taking iodine supplements unless advised, because excess iodine can disturb thyroid function.

Seek urgent help if swelling causes difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, choking or inability to swallow. Arrange prompt review for a rapidly enlarging lump, persistent hoarseness, neck pain, or symptoms such as marked palpitations, shaking, heat intolerance or unusual sluggishness.

Ask whether your thyroid is overactive, underactive or functioning normally, and whether you need hormone tests, imaging or follow-up.