Thyroid cancer is the growth of abnormal cells that begin in the thyroid. This solid tumor cancer typically manifests like a nodule or mass within the thyroid gland. The disease happens when rogue cells reproduce too quickly in a manner that’s impossible for the immune system to control. Although there are several types of thyroid cancer, follicular thyroid cancer and papillary thyroid cancer are the most common types. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include the following:

1. Swollen neck glands

This is one of the first signs or symptoms of thyroid cancer. It is a painless lump that usually develops in the front of the neck. The lump or growth is referred to as a thyroid nodule. Although it is painless, a thyroid nodule is enough to send one to a doctor’s office. It is important to take note of any swelling within the throat to ascertain if it is thyroid cancer or not. Detecting the problem early can make it easy to treat the condition.

2. Difficulty swallowing

Lymph nodes are located in many parts of your body including the throat. If thyroid cancer spreads to the neck, then the lymph nodes found there will become swollen. This will make swallowing anything very difficult. But the lymph nodes will resume their normal shape after the condition has been treated.

3. Unexplained hoarseness

This is another common sign of thyroid cancer. When a person is infected with thyroid cancer, growths or nodules develop around the thyroid gland. This changes its shape and puts excessive pressure on the larynx and vocal cords. That’s why the voice of the person is affected by changes including variation in loudness and hoarseness.

4. Sore throat

If you are experiencing a sore throat that doesn’t seem to improve, then it might be an indication of thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer can easily spread to the lymph nodes that are spread across the body including the throat. When thyroid cancer reaches the throat, the lymph nodes around it become sore and painful. They can only return to their normal shape and size after the infection has been treated.

5. Trouble breathing

The thyroid gland is located on top of the trachea or windpipe. Thyroid cancer can cause growth which exerts pressure on the trachea—making it difficult for one to breathe. The esophagus is situated underneath the trachea, meaning that any growth around it can make swallowing difficult.

6. Diagnosing and treating thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is usually diagnosed with a biopsy, in which cells from the tumor are removed and sent to a lab. Once thyroid cancer is diagnosed, there are several treatments available. NTRK fusion genes in thyroid cancer have been used for many years, and proved to be one of the most effective treatments for the disease. This drug is also used to treat cancers that result from abnormal RET genes in people of 12 years and above. Radioactive iodine therapy for thyroid cancer is another treatment option. This treatment targets any thyroid cells left behind after surgery. Lastly, GAVRETO (Pralsetinib) is another common treatment for thyroid cancer. This is a targeted therapy taken orally once per day.