Goiter is the medical term for the enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located below the Adam’s apple.  One of the most causes of goiter formation worldwide is the iodine supply deficiency.  It affects many people within certain geographic areas who cannot get enough iodine supply in their diet.  Iodine is found in fish products, drinking water, table salt, etc., which are essential for the production of thyroid hormone.  Without iodine, the thyroid gland enlarges in an attempt to increase the output of the hormone.  Furthermore, there are some periods in life particularly for women during pregnancy wherein the thyroid hormone is a necessity, and in growing children, the thyroid is essential for normal growth and development. 


Goiter is often a signal of a more serious underlying problem and any swelling of the neck should immediately be checked by a doctor.  Both the underactive and overactive thyroid, if left unattended or untreated, can eventually lead to life-threatening complications.

Hyperthyroidism or toxic goiter is a condition in which there is overproduction of thyroid hormone of the thyroid gland, which causes an all time high level of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream.  This abnormally high level of thyroid hormone typically speeds up the body’s metabolism needed for cell function, growth, and division.  Signs of hyperthyroidism for some individuals may include a rapid heartbeat, insomnia, body weakness, fingers and hands tremor, irritability and rapid loss of weight, a difficulty in the

swallowing of food, profuse sweating, nervousness, heat intolerance, monthly period irregularity for women, etc. A thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland due to virus infection and can result in the enlargement of the thyroid gland which causes temporary hyperthyroidism, usually followed by hypothyroidism. If signs and symptoms show, it should immediately be attended by a throat specialist.