India’s Leading Thyroid Surgeon Dr Amita Jain Explains
The moment we hear the word cancer, it makes us feel anxious and afraid. However, it’s important to remember that advancements in medical science have made great strides in understanding, diagnosing, and treating various types of cancer. While a cancer diagnosis can still be daunting, early detection helps.
Today, we are going to discuss Thyroid Cancer-its early symptoms that will help in its diagnosis. Let’s learn more from eminent thyroid surgeon, Dr Amita Jain.
What is Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer, a type of endocrine cancer, develops in the thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate body temperature, heart rate, and metabolism (how your body uses energy).
Types of Thyroid Cancer
- Papillary: About 80% of thyroid cancers are papillary, which grows slowly and usually responds well to treatment.
- Follicular: Making up 15% of cases, follicular thyroid cancer can spread to bones and organs, posing greater treatment challenges.
- Medullary: In around 2% of cases, medullary thyroid cancer might be linked to genetic mutations and has a familial connection in 25% of cases.
- Anaplastic: This aggressive type constitutes 2%, growing fast and often spreading, making it tough to treat.
Who is at risk?
Papillary thyroid cancer commonly impacts individuals between 30 and 50 years old. In contrast, follicular thyroid cancer tends to occur in those over 50, while anaplastic thyroid cancer is rare and typically emerges in adults aged 60 and above. Studies suggest that women are more prone to developing thyroid cancer than men.
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Early signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer can vary, and some individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, here are some common signs and symptoms associated with thyroid cancer:
1. Lump or Nodule in the Neck
The most common early sign is the presence of an unusual lump or nodule in the neck, which is typically painless. Not all thyroid nodules are cancerous, but any persistent lump should be evaluated by a medical professional. Research suggests that thyroid nodules are prevalent in around 80 percent of women. However, only a small portion, ranging from 5 percent to 15 percent, of these growths are cancerous.
2. Fatigue and Unexplained Weight Changes
Fatigue is the most common early symptom that women Feeling excessively tired or experiencing unexplained weight loss might be signs that something is off with your thyroid gland. While these symptoms are quite general and could point to various health issues, it’s good to keep them in mind, especially if they’re accompanied by other thyroid-related signs.
3. Swollen Lymph Nodes
Enlarged or swollen lymph nodes in the neck may be a sign that the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
4. Voice Changes
The thyroid gland wraps around the voicebox (larynx), with its cartilage forming the protective “Adam’s apple.” Special larynx receptors react to thyroid hormones, explaining voice changes from gland shifts. Thyroid cancer causes growths near the thyroid, altering its shape and pressing on the larynx, leading to voice changes. Temporary hoarseness can be due to allergies or infections, but lasting hoarseness requires attention, as it might point to a serious concern.
5. Shortness of Breath
People often experience shortness of breath or dyspnea. This occurs when an enlarged thyroid gland or nodule presses against the esophagus, causing a feeling of breathing through a straw. This is a notable symptom of the condition.
6. Swallowing Difficulties
People in the early stages of thyroid cancer might experience dysphagia, or trouble swallowing. This happens when the thyroid gland obstructs muscle contractions needed for normal swallowing.
Although these initial indications might suggest thyroid cancer, they can arise from other causes as well. Always consult the doctor before jumping at conclusions. Early detection enhances treatability and recovery prospects.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi