Goitre
An enlarged thyroid gland, seen as a swelling at the front of the neck. It can occur with normal, low or high thyroid hormone levels.
Quick Summary
A swelling in the front of the neck; sometimes tightness, cough, hoarse voice or difficulty swallowing.
Depends on the cause: iodine, thyroid medicines, radioactive iodine or surgery for large goitres.
Iodine deficiency, being female, older age, autoimmune thyroid disease and family history.
Overview
Worldwide, the most common cause of goitre is iodine deficiency. India's iodised salt programme has made this much less common.
Other causes include Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease and thyroid nodules.
Symptoms
Neck swelling
At the base of the neck.
Tightness
A feeling of pressure in the throat.
Swallowing or breathing difficulty
With large goitres.
Thyroid symptoms
Signs of under- or overactive thyroid.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
The thyroid enlarges because of iodine shortage, autoimmune disease or nodules.
Key Risk Factors
- Iodine deficiency In areas without iodised salt.
- Sex More common in women.
- Autoimmune disease Hashimoto's or Graves'.
Management & Treatment
01. Tests
Thyroid blood tests and an ultrasound.
02. Medicines
Levothyroxine or antithyroid medicines depending on hormone levels.
03. Surgery
For large goitres causing symptoms or suspicious nodules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is goitre cancer?
Does iodised salt help?
Will it go away?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.