Best Goiter Doctors in Chennai

Goitre, colloquially known as thyroid goitre, is a condition marked by an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. This ailment can be triggered by a multitude of factors, the most common of which are an iodine deficiency or an autoimmune disorder. A goitre can affect anyone, although individuals with a predisposition to thyroid issues, such as a family history of thyroid diseases, are more susceptible.

In the culturally diverse city of Chennai, changes in dietary practices could potentially influence the occurrence of goitre. The best goitre treatment doctors focus on modifying dietary habits to ensure adequate iodine consumption, thus reducing the risk of iodine-deficiency related goitres.

Types/Stages of Goitre

Goitre presents itself in two distinct forms:

• Simple Goitre: Mostly caused by iodine deficiency, it leads to hypothyroidism where the thyroid gland produces fewer hormones.

• Exophthalmic Goitre (Graves' Disease): Associated with hyperthyroidism, this form of goitre results in an overactive thyroid gland and is accompanied by bulging eyeballs (exophthalmos).

Symptoms of Goitre

The symptoms of goitre can vary greatly based on whether the thyroid gland is underactive (hypothyroid) or overactive (hyperthyroid). They include:

• Hypothyroid Symptoms

  • Fatigue,

  • Increased sensitivity to cold,

  • Sleepiness,

  • Dry skin,

  • Constipation, and

  • Problems with memory or concentration.

• Hyperthyroid Symptoms

  • Weight loss,

  • Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia),

  • Increased sensitivity to heat,

  • Tremors,

  • Irritability and nervousness.

Tests to Diagnose Goitre

To diagnose goitre accurately, goitre doctors at Apollo Hospitals employ several tests:

• Physical Examination: Doctors palpate the neck to detect an enlarged thyroid gland.

• Blood Tests: These tests measure levels of thyroid hormones to determine if the gland is underactive or overactive.

• Ultrasonography: It uses sound waves to visualize the thyroid gland and identify nodules.

• Radioactive Iodine Uptake: This test measures the amount of radioactive iodine absorbed by the thyroid gland, helping doctors determine its function and cause.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Goitre at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, the best goitre specialists offer a range of treatment options for goitre:

• Medications: For hypothyroidism, synthetic thyroid hormone replacement is used to balance the hormone levels. For hyperthyroidism, anti-thyroid drugs or radioactive iodine are used to reduce excessive hormone production.

• Surgery: If the goitre causes significant symptoms like difficulty in breathing or swallowing, a surgical procedure (Thyroidectomy) to remove part or all of the thyroid gland may be necessary.