In addition to a neck lump, thyroid cancer also has these atypical symptoms!

When it comes to thyroid cancer, many people's first reaction is a "lump in the neck." Indeed, a painless, hard, and poorly movable lump in the neck is one of the most typical symptoms of thyroid cancer. Because of this, many people overlook other atypical symptoms of thyroid cancer, leading to delayed treatment. Today, we will discuss in detail other common symptoms of thyroid cancer besides a neck lump.

1. Voice Changes: Don't Just Ignore It as "Laryngitis"

Many people who experience hoarseness, a lowered voice, or even difficulty speaking initially attribute hoarseness to overuse, laryngitis, or a cold, rarely linking it to thyroid cancer. However, the thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, directly adjacent to the recurrent laryngeal nerve—the nerve that controls vocal cord movement. If thyroid cancer invades or compresses this nerve, it can affect the normal function of the vocal cords and cause voice abnormalities.

This type of voice change is different from that caused by common inflammation and is usually not accompanied by symptoms like sore throat, cough, or phlegm. It is also difficult to relieve with rest or medication and can persist or even gradually worsen. If hoarseness suddenly develops and persists for a long time without obvious recent vocal overuse or other symptoms of a cold or laryngitis, be vigilant and seek medical attention immediately.

2. Swallowing Dysphagia: Don't Misdiagnose It as an "Esophagus Problem"

Many people who experience difficulty swallowing, a foreign body sensation, or a feeling of food "stuck" in their neck while eating or drinking may mistakenly believe it's an esophageal problem, such as esophagitis, an esophageal ulcer, or even worry about esophageal cancer. However, they may not realize that the thyroid gland is located just in front of the esophagus. When thyroid cancer lesions grow to a certain size, they can directly compress the esophagus, causing narrowing of the esophageal lumen and resulting in swallowing dysphagia.

This type of swallowing dysphagia is more pronounced with solid foods, such as rice or steamed buns, which may feel labored. The discomfort is less pronounced with liquid foods. If this swallowing dysphagia persists for a long time, after ruling out esophageal problems, remember to get your thyroid checked to avoid missing a diagnosis of thyroid cancer.

3. Neck Pain: Don't Blame It on "Stiff Neck" or "Cervical Spondylosis"

Neck pain is a very common symptom. Most people attribute it to stiff neck, cervical spondylosis, or neck muscle strain, and typically relieve it with massage, plasters, and rest. However, in rare cases, thyroid cancer can also cause neck pain. This occurs when thyroid cancer lesions invade surrounding tissues (such as the neck muscles and fascia) or metastasize to cervical lymph nodes.

This pain is generally persistent and may be dull or throbbing. Massage and rest may not significantly alleviate it. Sometimes it is accompanied by swelling of the neck or swollen lymph nodes. If neck pain persists and no clear cause can be found for "stiff neck" or "cervical spondylosis," it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately to check for thyroid problems.

4. Dyspnea: Don't Just Think of "Asthma" or "Bronchitis"

Dyspnea is commonly associated with respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. However, if a large thyroid cancer lesion compresses the trachea, it can also cause dyspnea. This type of dyspnea is characterized by symptoms that worsen when lying down (because the thyroid gland exerts greater pressure on the trachea when lying down) and are relieved by sitting up or standing up. It is also typically not accompanied by typical respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sputum production, and wheezing.

If you experience unexplained dyspnea, especially if it worsens when lying down, after ruling out respiratory problems, it is important to have your thyroid checked to avoid delays in treatment due to thyroid cancer compressing the trachea.

Doctor's Conclusion

Although thyroid cancer typically presents with a "neck lump," not all patients experience it. Many patients present with these atypical manifestations as their first symptoms, which can easily be overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Therefore, if you experience persistent voice changes, swallowing discomfort, neck pain, or dyspnea, and have ruled out common related conditions (such as pharyngitis, esophagitis, cervical spondylosis, and asthma), it is important to see a doctor promptly. A thyroid ultrasound and thyroid function tests can be performed to screen for thyroid cancer. Furthermore, the development of thyroid cancer is linked to factors such as genetics, radiation exposure, and abnormal iodine intake.

Therefore, individuals with a family history of thyroid cancer or long-term exposure to radiation are advised to undergo regular thyroid screening (including annual thyroid ultrasound) to ensure early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

The overall prognosis for thyroid cancer is good. With early treatment, the five-year survival rate can reach over 90%. Therefore, there is no need to panic. The key is to remain vigilant, pay attention to atypical symptoms, and conduct prompt screening to better protect thyroid health.