If you have a thyroid lump, the first step is to determine its cause. An ear, nose and throat specialist can run tests to determine the level of hormones in your blood and whether your thyroid is producing too much or too little of them. A lump can be anything from a simple goiter, caused by an insufficient intake of iodine in your diet, to a more serious condition known as Hashimoto's (HAHSH-EE-MO-TOES) Syndrome. The exact cause of this condition is not known, but it's understood to be hereditary. It may be caused by white blood cells or antibodies attacking the thyroid. Treatment consists of replacing the thyroid hormones in the body. Results are generally seen within a few weeks. Unfortunately, there is little chance that the disease will ever disappear, and you may have to continue treatments throughout your life. An ear, nose and throat specialist will be able to determine the cause of your thyroid lump and recommend a course of treatment.
