Thyroid Nodules

3D illustration of the thyroid gland highlighted in the neck

What is a Thyroid Nodule?

A thyroid nodule is a growth or lump in the thyroid gland, located at the front of your neck. Most thyroid nodules are benign (non-cancerous) and may not cause symptoms.
Thyroid anatomy models on a desk with a doctor and tablet in the background
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Some nodules can become large or symptomatic, leading to:

Noticeable lumps in the neck
Painful or difficult swallowing
Hoarseness or voice changes
Breathing difficulties
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Causes & Risk Factors

There are several factors that may contribute to the development of thyroid nodules. Iodine deficiency is a known cause, especially in regions where dietary iodine is low. A family history of thyroid disease can increase your risk, as certain genetic factors play a role in thyroid health.
Additionally, prior exposure to radiation, particularly during childhood, can heighten the likelihood of developing nodules later in life.
Doctor performing a thyroid ultrasound on a woman's neck
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How Are Thyroid Nodules Diagnosed?

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The diagnosis of a thyroid nodule typically begins with a careful physical examination of the neck to feel for lumps or irregularities. If a nodule is suspected, further assessment involves ultrasound imaging, which provides detailed pictures of the thyroid and helps determine the characteristics of the nodule. Blood tests are also commonly performed to evaluate thyroid function and to check for hormone imbalances.
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In cases where a nodule appears large, unusual, or suspicious based on imaging or clinical findings, a fine needle aspiration biopsy may be recommended. This procedure uses a thin needle to collect cells from the nodule for examination under a microscope, which can help distinguish benign from malignant nodules.
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Woman's neck with the thyroid gland illustrated and highlighted in red

Thyroid Nodule Treatment Options

Treatment plans for thyroid nodules depend on the size of the nodule, the presence and severity of symptoms, and whether there are any concerning features or risk factors.

Observation — Small, asymptomatic nodules are monitored with regular exams and ultrasounds.
Thyroid Nodule Biopsy Ultrasound-guided needle biopsy checks for cancer or abnormal hormone production.
Hormone Therapy Synthetic thyroid hormone may be prescribed if the gland is underactive.
Antithyroid Medication Used if the nodule causes overproduction of thyroid hormones.
Surgery For large or symptomatic nodules, partial or total thyroidectomy may be necessary.
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Do I qualify for thyroid nodule treatment?

Answer two quick questions to see if a minimally invasive thyroid treatment could be an option for you.

Are you experiencing symptoms that may be caused by a thyroid nodule? (Select all that apply)

Which treatment approach best matches your preference?

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You may be a candidate for thyroid nodule treatment.

It looks like you may be a candidate. Please contact NSVI at (952) 960-9399 to schedule a consultation, or fill out the form on this page.

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You may not be a candidate at this time.

It looks like you are not a candidate for thyroid nodule treatment at this time. If you'd still like more information, please contact NSVI by calling (952) 960-9399 or fill out the form on this page.

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Your answers don't point clearly one way or the other. The best way to know your options is a conversation with our team — please fill out the form on this page.

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International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS)

Answer each question about your urinary symptoms over the past month. Your total score is calculated instantly.

0 of 7 answered

1. Incomplete Emptying: How often have you had the sensation of not emptying your bladder?

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2. Frequency: How often have you had to urinate less than every two hours?

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3. Intermittency: How often have you found you stopped and started again several times when you urinated?

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4. Urgency: How often have you found it difficult to postpone urination?

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5. Weak Stream: How often have you had a weak urinary stream?

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6. Straining: How often have you had to strain to start urination?

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7. Nocturia: How many times did you typically get up at night to urinate?

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Please answer all questions to see your score.

Your I-PSS score

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This score is for informational purposes and is not a diagnosis. Share it with your provider to discuss what it means for you — or fill out the form on this page to talk with our team.

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WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index

Rate each activity by the degree of difficulty you have experienced in the last 48 hours due to your knee.

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Pain

1. Walking

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2. Stair climbing

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3. Nocturnal

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4. Rest

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5. Weight bearing

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Stiffness

1. Morning stiffness

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2. Stiffness occurring later in the day

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Physical Function

1. Descending stairs

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2. Ascending stairs

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3. Rise from sitting

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4. Standing

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5. Bending to floor

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6. Walking on flat surface

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7. Getting in/out of car

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8. Going shopping

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9. Putting on socks

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10. Lying in bed

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11. Taking off socks

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12. Rising from bed

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13. Getting in/out of bath

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14. Sitting

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15. Getting on/off toilet

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16. Heavy domestic duties

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17. Light domestic duties

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Please answer all questions to see your score.

Your WOMAC score

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This score is for informational purposes and is not a diagnosis. Share it with your provider to discuss what it means for you — or fill out the form on this page to talk with our team.

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Foot & Ankle Disability Index (FADI)

Rate each item by your current level of difficulty. Higher scores indicate better foot and ankle function.

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Activity

1. Standing

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2. Walking on even ground

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3. Walking on even ground without shoes

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4. Walking up hills

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5. Walking down hills

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6. Going up stairs

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7. Going down stairs

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8. Walking on uneven ground

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9. Stepping up and down curbs

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10. Squatting

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11. Sleeping

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12. Coming up to your toes

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13. Walking initially

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14. Walking 5 minutes or less

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15. Walking approximately 10 minutes

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16. Walking 15 minutes or greater

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17. Home responsibilities

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18. Activities of daily living

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19. Personal care

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20. Light to moderate work (standing, walking)

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21. Heavy work (push/pulling, climbing, carrying)

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22. Recreational activities

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Pain

23. General level of pain

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24. Pain at rest

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25. Pain during your normal activity

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26. Pain first thing in the morning

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Your FADI score

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This score is for informational purposes and is not a diagnosis. Share it with your provider to discuss what it means for you — or fill out the form on this page to talk with our team.

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