Can thyroid cysts be massaged?

Written by Zhao Xin Lan
Endocrinology
Updated on May 16, 2025
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Thyroid cysts refer to fluid-filled sac-like structures that appear in the thyroid, which are usually benign. The fluid contained within is often referred to as a blister. These blisters can be quite large, over five centimeters, or quite small, less than one centimeter. They should not be massaged, as massage does not offer any benefits to them. If the cyst is relatively large, massaging the area can stimulate it, causing bleeding within the cyst. Consequently, the cyst may rapidly and temporarily enlarge, potentially causing localized pain, compression, and even difficulties in breathing and swallowing. Therefore, it is advised not to massage thyroid cysts.

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Written by Zhao Xin Lan
Endocrinology
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What should I do if a thyroid cyst causes a fever?

Thyroid cysts are one of the most common benign masses found in the thyroid gland. Generally, they do not become cancerous and usually have no clinical symptoms; therefore, thyroid cysts themselves do not cause fever. If a patient with a thyroid cyst develops a fever, it is important to consider whether there might be a concurrent infectious disease. If there is pain in the area of the thyroid, it is necessary to evaluate for conditions such as thyroiditis or a thyroid abscess. A simple thyroid cyst alone would not cause a fever.

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Written by Zhang Li
Endocrinology
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What causes thyroid cysts?

Thyroid cysts currently have no definitive cause identified. Previously, most believed they were possibly related to iodine deficiency, as such deficiency leads to thyroid hyperplasia and an increase in thyroid cysts. However, it was later discovered that in some high-iodine coastal areas, the incidence of thyroid cysts remains high. This suggests that variations in iodine levels, such as switches from low to high iodine or from high to low iodine, can also lead to the occurrence of thyroid cysts. Additionally, it is currently believed that there might be some connection with radiation and the use of mobile phones and computers, but there is no definitive conclusion. Regardless, once thyroid cysts occur, it is important on one hand to eliminate the possibility of malignant features, ruling out thyroid cancer, and on the other hand to ensure thorough thyroid function tests to understand if there are any abnormalities in function and whether treatment is needed.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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Will thyroid cysts become malignant?

The formation mechanism of thyroid cysts may be due to the expansive growth of nodules, which compresses the venous vessels causing circulatory disturbances. This leads to tissue ischemia and atrophic degeneration, resulting in congestion and edema. Fluid accumulates to form cysts. Cysts formed through regressive changes in nodules can involve the entire nodule turning cystic or only partial cystic changes, thus forming masses that are partly solid and partly cystic. In thyroid cancer, cysts can also form due to necrosis, hemorrhage, and liquefaction. Therefore, thyroid cysts can also be cancerous. For this reason, regular observation and follow-up of thyroid cysts are necessary. If there is any indication of malignant transformation in a thyroid cyst, timely treatment is required.

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Written by Luo Juan
Endocrinology
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Can thyroid cysts drink soy milk?

Patients with thyroid cysts can generally drink soy milk. First, let's understand what a thyroid cyst is. A thyroid cyst is a fluid-containing sac found in the thyroid gland. The lump is usually round, with a diameter of 2-5 cm, smooth, and generally painless or slightly painful. Most are solitary nodules, with multiple nodules being rare. Thyroid cysts usually do not display symptoms unless the cyst is large or there is some bleeding inside the cyst, which may cause symptoms of compression such as pain, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, and hoarseness. Therefore, for thyroid cysts, if malignant, surgical removal is required; if benign, they are typically observed with follow-up. Thus, patients with thyroid cysts can drink soy milk.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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What foods are good for thyroid cysts?

For patients with thyroid cysts, it is necessary to check their thyroid function to understand their condition. For patients with hyperthyroidism, it is advised to avoid iodine-rich foods, such as seaweed, kelp, and seafood. However, patients with thyroid cysts are suggested to eat more foods that can enhance the immune system, such as shiitake mushrooms, mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, walnuts, Chinese yam, and red dates. They can also eat some foods that help reduce nodules and swelling, such as spinach, mustard greens, and kiwifruit. Patients with thyroid cysts are advised to quit smoking and drinking, and avoid spicy and stimulating foods, such as chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and onions. Additionally, they should avoid eating overly greasy foods.