How to eliminate thyroid nodules
Sep 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, the main approaches for managing thyroid nodules include regular observation and follow-up, medication, radioactive iodine therapy, ultrasound-guided ablation, and surgical treatment. Additionally, during treatment, patients should undergo regular check-ups as directed by their physician to monitor disease progression. If symptoms such as rapid nodule growth, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing occur, they should seek medical attention promptly to adjust the treatment plan.
Generally, the main methods for managing thyroid nodules include regular observation and follow-up, drug therapy, radioactive iodine treatment, ultrasound-guided ablation, and surgical treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Regular Observation and Follow-up
For small nodules that appear benign on ultrasound and cause no obvious symptoms, regular observation and follow-up are usually recommended. Patients should undergo a thyroid ultrasound every 6–12 months to monitor changes in the nodule’s size, shape, and margins. If the nodule is associated with abnormal thyroid function, thyroid function tests should also be performed regularly to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment due to inadequate monitoring.
2. Drug Therapy
Drug therapy is primarily used for certain benign nodules or those accompanied by thyroid dysfunction. If a nodule is associated with hypothyroidism, levothyroxine sodium may be prescribed under medical supervision. By supplementing thyroid hormone, this treatment helps regulate thyroid function and may lead to a reduction in nodule size. If the nodule is associated with inflammation, medications such as methimazole or propylthiouracil may be used under a doctor's guidance to control the inflammatory response.
3. Radioactive Iodine Therapy
Radioactive iodine therapy is suitable for certain thyroid nodules, especially those associated with hyperthyroidism. The radioactive iodine is absorbed by thyroid tissue and emits radiation that destroys the nodule tissue, leading to shrinkage or disappearance of the nodule and improvement of hyperthyroid symptoms. This treatment must be strictly administered in professional medical institutions.
4. Ultrasound-Guided Ablation Therapy
Ultrasound-guided ablation is a minimally invasive method for eliminating nodules and is suitable for selected benign nodules. Under precise ultrasound guidance, an ablation needle is inserted into the nodule. Energy sources such as radiofrequency, microwave, or laser are used to induce coagulative necrosis of the nodule tissue. The dead tissue is gradually absorbed by the body, thereby eliminating the nodule. This approach is characterized by minimal invasiveness and rapid recovery.
5. Surgical Treatment
Surgery is required when nodules are large enough to compress surrounding tissues, are suspected to be malignant, or are confirmed as cancerous. Common surgical procedures include partial thyroidectomy and total thyroidectomy. By removing the nodule along with part or all of the thyroid gland, the lesion is completely eliminated, preventing the spread of malignant disease. After surgery, whether or not thyroid hormone replacement is needed depends on the patient’s postoperative thyroid function.
In addition, during treatment, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions for regular follow-up exams to monitor disease progression. If symptoms such as rapid nodule growth, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing occur, they should seek medical attention promptly to adjust the treatment plan.
