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What are the causes of thyroid nodule disease?

Jul 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Introduction
The causes of thyroid nodules may include aging, fluctuations in iodine intake, simple goiter, thyroiditis, thyroid adenoma, and thyroid cancer. They are usually treatable through dietary adjustments, medication, surgical treatment, and other methods. If any abnormalities are detected, timely medical consultation is recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:

The possible causes of thyroid nodules may include aging, fluctuations in iodine intake, simple goiter, thyroiditis, thyroid adenoma, and thyroid cancer. These conditions can usually be treated through dietary adjustments, medication, surgical treatment, and other methods. If any abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Aging: With increasing age, the thyroid tissue may gradually undergo degenerative changes, potentially leading to nodule formation. Regular thyroid examinations are recommended to monitor nodule changes, maintain regular作息 (sleep patterns), and follow a balanced diet.

2. Fluctuations in iodine intake: Long-term excessive or insufficient iodine intake can affect thyroid hormone synthesis, causing thyroid tissue hyperplasia and nodule formation. Adjust iodine intake in the diet, moderately control the use of iodized salt, and avoid excessive consumption of high-iodine foods such as kelp.

3. Simple goiter: Iodine deficiency or metabolic disorders can cause compensatory hyperplasia of the thyroid gland, resulting in nodule formation. It often presents as diffuse thyroid enlargement with soft nodule texture and typically lacks obvious symptoms. Treatment primarily involves following medical advice to use medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, and Prunella vulgaris oral liquid.

4. Thyroiditis: Autoimmune reactions or infections can cause thyroid inflammation, where inflammatory stimulation leads to thyroid tissue hyperplasia and nodule formation. Symptoms often include thyroid pain, swelling, fatigue, and others. Doctors generally recommend treatment with medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and selenium yeast tablets.

5. Thyroid cyst: Fluid-filled cystic structures form within the thyroid, mostly benign, potentially resulting from degenerative changes in thyroid nodules or adenomas. Typically asymptomatic, larger cysts may cause a sensation of pressure. Treatment requires following medical advice to choose cyst aspiration or surgical removal based on cyst size.

In daily life, maintaining good lifestyle habits, avoiding excessive fatigue, appropriately managing iodine intake, and undergoing regular thyroid ultrasound examinations are essential for early detection and timely treatment. If a nodule rapidly enlarges or causes pressure symptoms, prompt medical consultation is advised.

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