Thyroid Enlargement: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, and More
Learn what causes thyroid enlargement, including iodine deficiency, thyroid disorders, and nodules. Understand symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Written by Dr Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ in the neck that regulates several bodily functions. Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are the main hormones produced by the thyroid gland, which are responsible for regulating growth, metabolism, and development.
Excessive or reduced secretion of these hormones can lead to health problems like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, causing thyroid enlargement. This article analyses thyroid enlargement, its causes, effects, and treatment approaches.
Causes of Thyroid Enlargement (Goitre)
Here are a few reasons why the thyroid gland enlarges in some people:
Grave’s Disease
In this disease, the thyroid gland enlarges due to the immune system’s attack on an individual’s thyroid gland. This autoimmune disease is mainly caused by hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid produces more hormones than required.
Iodine Deficiency
The human body relies on iodine for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. A diet deficient in iodine causes the thyroid gland to form more cells for hormone production, which can cause swelling or enlargement of the gland.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the release of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) stimulates the thyroid gland through its interaction with the TSH receptors. This leads to an increase in thyroid hormone production, which can cause the gland to enlarge.
Hashimoto’s Disease
Like Grave’s disease, Hashimoto’s disease is autoimmune and causes inflammation in the thyroid gland, which increases its size. Though it recovers over time, it needs treatment in some cases.
The thyroid gland may also enlarge due to disorders like thyroiditis and thyroid cancer.
Common Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders
The symptoms of thyroid enlargement may vary from person to person, depending on the type of thyroid disorder. Here are some of the symptoms based on the two types of thyroid disorders: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
A drop in heart rate from the normal range
- Exhaustion
- Sensitivity to cold
- Unexplained weight gain
- Dryness in hair and skin
- Menorrhagia (excessive menstrual flow)
- Depression
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
- Sleeping difficulties
- Unexplained weight loss
- Sensitivity to heat
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
- Excessive sweating
- Anxiety
- Amenorrhea (irregular menstrual cycle)
Like their causes, both thyroid conditions have opposite symptoms. However, both can cause thyroid enlargement.
Consult Top Doctors For Thyroid Symptoms
Risk Factors for Developing Thyroid Disorders
Though thyroid disorders can happen to anyone, some risk factors can increase the chances of thyroid enlargement:
- Medical conditions such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, anaemia, lupus, etc.
- Family history of an enlarged thyroid
- Intake of iodine-rich medications
- History of radiation treatment or thyroidectomy
Diabetic individuals and women over 60 have an increased risk of developing thyroid disorders. Additionally, an autoimmune condition such as Grave’s or Hashimoto’s disease increases the likelihood of developing thyroid issues.
Diagnostic Methods for Thyroid Disorders
Doctors usually begin with a physical examination, palpating the thyroid gland to check for lumps or enlargement. They then review the patient’s medical history and symptoms before recommending the following tests for thyroid assessment:
Blood Tests
Thyroid blood tests include T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine), thyroid antibodies, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). These tests check the thyroid gland's hormone secretion level and determine whether the individual has hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Imaging Tests
It is an ultrasound for the thyroid to detect the presence of nodules or lumps inside the gland and its enlargement (goitre). Doctors also suggest a thyroid uptake test and nuclear medicine imaging followed by a scan to check whether the thyroid nodules are overactive or underactive.
Impact of an Enlarged Thyroid on Health
An enlarged thyroid can compress the structures surrounding the gland and lead to issues in swallowing, breathing, etc. It can also make the voice hoarse, causing difficulty in speaking. Individuals diagnosed with hypothyroidism may experience hypertension and an increase in their lipid level.
These conditions may increase the chances of cardiovascular disease. Patients having thyroid disorders with metabolic syndrome are at higher risk of CVD (cardiovascular disease).
Treatment Options for Thyroid Disorders
Depending on the thyroid condition, individuals may undergo various treatments to restore and maintain balanced thyroid hormone levels, including:
Treatment for Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
The primary treatment for hyperthyroidism involves antithyroid medications like propylthiouracil and methimazole. These drugs block the thyroid gland from producing excessive hormones, helping regulate hormone levels.
In more severe cases, surgery (thyroidectomy) may be recommended, where part or all of the thyroid gland is removed to stop hormone production. Patients who undergo this procedure will need lifelong medication to meet their hormone needs.
Another option is radioiodine therapy, which targets overactive thyroid cells and reduces hormone production while also shrinking an enlarged thyroid.
Treatment for Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
The primary treatment option for hypothyroidism is taking thyroid replacement pills. In this therapy, sufficient thyroid hormones are added to the body in a synthetic way to balance the hormonal needs. Levothyroxine is one of the most common and effective medicines for hypothyroidism.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Thyroid Health
Maintaining thyroid health can be supported through several lifestyle adjustments, which include:
Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining thyroid health. Nuts and seeds (selenium-rich foods), seafood (iodine-rich foods), whole grains and legumes (zinc-rich foods) help maintain thyroid function effectively.
Stress Management
Individuals suffering from chronic stress have immense possibilities of thyroid disorders. To control stress, they can practice yoga, meditation, and other techniques for stress relief.
Avoiding Smoking and Drinking
Smoking and consuming too much alcohol have adverse effects on thyroid function. Quitting such habits reduces the risk of thyroid disorders.
Adequate Iodine Intake
Though iodine is necessary for proper thyroid function, excessive consumption of iodine-rich food can reduce hormone production, leading to hyperthyroidism.
Regular Exercise
Physical activities regulate hormone secretion and metabolism. Patients can opt for flexibility exercises, strength training, and cardio to maintain healthy body function.
Complications Associated with Untreated Thyroid
If thyroid disorders go unnoticed or untreated, they can lead to the following complications:
Hyperthyroidism Complications
- Osteoporosis
- Heart Failure
- Stroke
- Atrial fibrillation
Hypothyroidism Complications
- Risks of heart failure and cardiac diseases
- Depression
- Infertility
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Myxedema
Conclusion
The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating various functions in the body. Any disorder in this gland can lead to conditions like goitre, where the thyroid becomes enlarged. This can further result in severe health issues, affecting heart function, metabolism, brain activity, and more.
Maintaining a proper diet, managing stress, taking prescribed medications, and exercising regularly can help control thyroid disorders and prevent complications.
Consult Top Endocrinologist
Consult Top Doctors For Thyroid Symptoms
Dr. Nithin Reddy Modhugu
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Dr. Nithin's Endocrine Clinic, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. M.a. Mujeeb Afzal
Endocrinologist
13 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Premier Hospital, Hyderabad
Dr. Gayatri S
Endocrinologist
4 Years • Suggested Qualifictaion- MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Nellore
Narayana hospital, Nellore
Dr. Shiva Madan
Endocrinologist
10 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Endocrinology)
Bikaner
Sushma diabetes and Endocrine center, Bikaner
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Venkata Rakesh Chintala
Endocrinologist
8 Years • MBBS,MD( GEN MEDICINE), DM ( ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Krishna district
Sanjeevani Hospital, Krishna district
Consult Top Endocrinologist
Dr. Nithin Reddy Modhugu
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Dr. Nithin's Endocrine Clinic, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. M.a. Mujeeb Afzal
Endocrinologist
13 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Premier Hospital, Hyderabad
Dr. Gayatri S
Endocrinologist
4 Years • Suggested Qualifictaion- MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Nellore
Narayana hospital, Nellore
Dr. Shiva Madan
Endocrinologist
10 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Endocrinology)
Bikaner
Sushma diabetes and Endocrine center, Bikaner
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Venkata Rakesh Chintala
Endocrinologist
8 Years • MBBS,MD( GEN MEDICINE), DM ( ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Krishna district
Sanjeevani Hospital, Krishna district
