How to treat thyroid cysts?

Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
Updated on September 25, 2024
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Thyroid cysts refer to fluid-filled sacs found in the thyroid, generally round in shape and varying in size, with no significant clinical symptoms. They can appear as a single nodule or multiple nodules. Typically, when thyroid cysts are detected, high-resolution thyroid ultrasonography can be used to observe their ultrasonographic appearance. Thyroid cysts are generally considered benign thyroid nodules and usually do not require treatment. Regular follow-up with thyroid ultrasound is sufficient. If the thyroid cyst is too large and causes compressive symptoms, such as difficulty in breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, etc., surgical removal can be considered.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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Do thyroid cysts require medication?

Patients with thyroid cysts who have normal thyroid function do not need oral medication treatment; they only need regular monitoring of thyroid function and thyroid ultrasound. However, patients with thyroid cysts accompanied by hyperthyroidism need to be treated for hyperthyroidism, either with oral medication, iodine-131, or surgery. When thyroid cysts are accompanied by hypothyroidism, oral hormone replacement treatment is also required to bring the thyroid function back to normal levels. Therefore, whether patients with thyroid cysts need medication depends on the results of their thyroid function tests.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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Foods to avoid with thyroid cysts

For patients with thyroid cysts, it is necessary to first understand the patient's thyroid function, whether it is normal, overactive, or underactive. For patients with thyroid cysts who also have hyperthyroidism, a diet avoiding iodine is still necessary, as excessive iodine intake can significantly affect their hyperthyroid condition, therefore they need to consume iodine-free food. However, for patients with normal thyroid function or those with hypothyroidism, a normal diet is appropriate, and there is no need to avoid iodine. It is also recommended that they avoid smoking and alcohol in their daily life.

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Written by Zhao Xin Lan
Endocrinology
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Can people with thyroid cysts eat seaweed?

Thyroid cysts generally do not show any symptoms clinically and are mostly benign. They are usually solitary, but occasionally multiple cysts could be present. Currently, the exact cause of thyroid cysts is not completely understood. Some scholars believe that the formation of thyroid cysts is related to iodine deficiency. Others suggest that in areas with a high incidence of thyroid cysts, the iodine content is also relatively high, indicating that both exceptionally low or high levels of iodine could potentially be a cause of thyroid cysts. Seaweed is a food high in iodine. Eating seaweed occasionally should not have a significant impact, but consuming seaweed daily could lead to excessive iodine levels in the body, which is not advisable during periods of thyroid cyst affliction.

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Written by Luo Juan
Endocrinology
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What should I do about a thyroid cyst?

What should I do if I have a thyroid cyst? First, we need to understand what a thyroid cyst is. A thyroid cyst refers to a fluid-filled sac found in the thyroid gland. Generally, patients with thyroid cysts do not show any clinical symptoms in the early stages. Some discover a lump accidentally, usually without systemic symptoms. Individual patients may exhibit symptoms such as hyperthyroidism, and some with a longer disease course can also experience hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, poor appetite, constipation, and edema. Therefore, when diagnosed with a thyroid cyst, it is crucial to determine whether the cyst is benign or malignant and whether it affects thyroid function. If it does impact function, symptomatic treatment is necessary. Of course, most thyroid cysts are benign and can be monitored over time.

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Written by Zhao Xin Lan
Endocrinology
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Can you get pregnant with a thyroid cyst?

Thyroid cysts refer to sac-like formations within the thyroid gland that contain fluid, typically benign with rare cases of malignancy. The fluid inside these cysts, also known as blisters, has no secretory function and does not affect thyroid function, making it possible to become pregnant with a thyroid cyst. However, it is important to note that during pregnancy, if the cyst rapidly enlarges or if there is localized pain, it could be due to bleeding inside the cyst which requires urgent treatment. Aspiration of the cyst fluid can be done through fine needle aspiration to relieve pressure, and ethanol ablation can be used to close the cyst cavity. This minor surgery is generally tolerable and does not affect pregnancy.