The first symptom of thyroid cancer is usually swelling or a small lump on the front of the neck. This is called a thyroid nodule. Thyroid nodules are common. In more than 90 percent of patients, they are benign (noncancerous).
Other symptoms of thyroid cancer may include:
- Hoarseness
- Trouble swallowing
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain in the throat or neck that does not go away
- A cough that does not go away and is not due to a cold
Most people with thyroid cancer do not show any of these symptoms. Or these symptoms may be similar to those of other medical conditions. If you are concerned about a symptom on this list, please talk with your doctor.
