Thyroid Symptoms, Conditions, and Treatment Options

Many people are surprised to learn that ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists treat thyroid conditions. Because the thyroid gland is located in the neck, ENT physicians are uniquely trained to diagnose and manage thyroid disorders, including thyroid nodules, goiters, and thyroid cancer.

At Topeka Ear, Nose & Throat, our team frequently evaluates and treats patients with thyroid concerns using advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Understanding the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck, just below the larynx (voice box) and in front of the trachea (windpipe). It is part of the endocrine system and plays a vital role in your overall health.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate your metabolism—how your body converts food into energy. These hormones affect nearly every organ in your body, helping control:

• Heart rate

• Body temperature

• Weight

• Energy levels

• Mood

Because every cell in your body relies on energy, proper thyroid function is essential for the entire body.

Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems

When the thyroid produces too much or too little hormone, a wide range of symptoms may occur.

Common warning signs include:

• Fatigue

• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss

• Sleep disturbances

• Depression or anxiety

• Changes in heart rate

• Difficulty swallowing or a lump in the neck

If you notice persistent symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and our endocrine specialists at Topeka ENT are here to help. If you are concerned about your thyroid, give us a call today at 785-233-0500 to schedule your appointment.

Common Thyroid Conditions

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, slowing the body’s metabolism. Symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, and depression. This condition is common and typically manageable with medication.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism develops when the thyroid produces excessive hormone. Symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, fatigue, and frequent bowel movements. Treatment options include medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity.

Goiter

A goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the butterfly-shaped thyroid gland in the neck, caused by overall enlargement or nodules, often due to iodine deficiency or other thyroid disorders. While sometimes harmless and painless, large goiters can cause difficulty breathing, swallowing, or coughing, and may indicate problems with thyroid hormone production (too much or too little).  

Your provider may recommend surgery to remove all or part of your thyroid gland (thyroidectomy). You may need surgery if the goiter is large and causes problems with breathing and swallowing.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer starts in the thyroid gland. Cancer occurs when thyroid cells mutate, leading to abnormal growth forming tumors that can spread. Thyroid cancer is often slow-growing and highly treatable, especially the common papillary and follicular types. Symptoms include neck lumps, hoarseness, and swallowing difficulties; treatment typically involves surgery and radiation therapy.

Personalized Thyroid Treatment Options

Thyroid conditions are often lifelong, but with the right medical and surgical care, patients can maintain an excellent quality of life. At Topeka Ear, Nose & Throat, our specialists take a personalized approach to thyroid care, carefully evaluating each patient’s condition to determine the most effective treatment plan.

If treatment is necessary, our team will guide you through your options and recommend the best course of care based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and overall health.

Surgery may be recommended for patients with:

• Large or symptomatic thyroid nodules

• Thyroid cancer

• A goiter affecting breathing or swallowing

• Hyperthyroidism that does not respond to other treatments

When thyroid surgery is necessary, Topeka Ear, Nose & Throat’s experienced endocrine surgeons perform thousands of minimally invasive thyroid procedures each year, including thyroidectomy and lobectomy, with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.

---

Schedule a Thyroid Consultation at One of Our 10 Locations Across Northeast Kansas

If you are experiencing unexplained fatigue, weight changes, or neck symptoms and suspect your thyroid may be the cause, the specialists at Topeka ENT are here to help. Call our office today at 785-233-0500 to receive expert evaluation and personalized care.

Call Now