A goitre (sometimes spelt 'goiter') is an abnormal swelling of the thyroid gland.
What is the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just in front of the windpipe. It produces thyroid hormones, which help regulate your body's metabolism.
Normally, the thyroid gland is not noticeable. But if it swells it produces a lump in the throat, known as a goitre. The size of goitre can vary from person to person.
In most cases, the swelling is small and does not cause any symptoms. In more severe cases, the swelling can increase so dramatically that breathing and swallowing are affected.
How common are goitres?
Goitres are a common condition. One study estimated that 8.5% of the UK population has a goitre although, in most cases, the swelling is so small that it cannot be seen. Goitres are more common in women than men.
Goitres can have a number of possible causes including an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), pregnancy and a lack of iodine in the diet.
The treatment for goitres depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, if the goitre is small and is not causing any problems, a wait-and-see approach is advised.
Other possible treatments include hormone replacement, dietary supplements and, in the most severe cases, surgery.
