Thyroid cancer is a disease where malignant cancer cells form in the thyroid gland tissues. Different factors can contribute to the risk of getting thyroid cancer, such as age. It is also more likely to be diagnosed in women than men. There are different ways to treat thyroid cancer such as radiation, hormone therapy, and surgery. Here are some common thyroid cancer symptoms to look out for:

1. Swollen neck glands

Swollen neck glands are the main symptom of thyroid cancer. A typically painless lump, swelling on the front of your neck, or swollen lymph nodes are three early symptoms of thyroid cancer. Swollen neck glands typically happen early in thyroid cancer development so it is important to see a doctor as soon as this occurs.

2. Difficulty swallowing

Since your thyroid gland is on top of your trachea, which is right above your esophagus, thyroid cancer might cause difficulty breathing and swallowing. This is due to the swelling that occurs as a result of thyroid cancer. This symptom can affect people with thyroid cancer by making it harder to eat solid food and get proper nutrition.

3. Unexplained hoarseness

If you have unexplained hoarseness that doesn’t go away after a few weeks it is important to see a doctor as it is a common thyroid cancer symptom. This symptom typically occurs in the more advanced stages of thyroid cancer. Since the thyroid gland is in close proximity to your larynx, swelling or a lump can cause pressure on your larynx and vocal cords making speech more difficult.

4. Sore throat that doesn’t improve

Having a sore throat doesn’t always mean something as serious as thyroid cancer, but when combined with other symptoms it is best to see a doctor to be sure. A swollen thyroid gland or lymph nodes can cause pain in the throat as it constricts the amount of space in the throat. The pain caused by thyroid cancer can be extremely uncomfortable and may even feel like there is something stuck in the throat.

5. Trouble breathing

Another common symptom of thyroid cancer is trouble breathing. This, again, is caused by the swelling of the thyroid gland as it is right above the trachea. The pressure put on the trachea can make it constrict slightly and cause difficulty breathing, which can cause discomfort in those with thyroid cancer.