Is My Thyroid Enlarged?
I’m a 33-year-old who has been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and a gluten sensitivity that is not related to celiac disease. Currently, I take Armour thyroid medication every day along with Zoloft, though I am in the process of tapering off the latter. To enhance understanding, I’ve shared two images in the comments: one showing my neck stretched and the other in a neutral position. While I recognize that it can be challenging to assess thyroid enlargement from a photo, I can’t help but notice that there seems to be some swelling on the left side of the image, particularly on the right side of where my thyroid is located. Can anyone offer their opinion on this?
Answers (1)
9/14/2025, 2:20:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about possible changes in your thyroid size, especially with your history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. While visual assessments from photos can be challenging, there are some important steps you can take to evaluate your thyroid health.
Key Points:
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis may cause changes in thyroid size due to inflammation.
- It's important to monitor symptoms and changes in your condition.
Explanation: Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, often leading to hypothyroidism. This can sometimes result in an enlarged thyroid, known as a goiter. You may notice changes due to inflammation or other factors, but it's essential to rely on personal experiences and symptoms alongside clinical evaluation for accurate assessment.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Tracking: Note any new symptoms such as changes in energy levels, weight, mood changes, or difficulty swallowing. This can help identify if there’s a need for further evaluation.
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Self-Examination: Gently palpate the area around your thyroid (located just below your Adam's apple). Look for any noticeable lumps or swelling.
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Regular Follow-ups: Make it a point to have regular check-ins with your healthcare provider to discuss your thyroid function and any concerns about swelling or other symptoms.
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Monitor Thyroid Levels: If you haven’t done so recently, consider having your thyroid hormone levels checked to ensure your medication dosage is appropriate and there are no underlying issues.
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Hydration and Diet: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet, particularly managing your gluten sensitivity, can support overall thyroid health.
If you notice significant swelling or any concerning symptoms, you may want to discuss with your healthcare provider whether additional imaging studies or adjustments to your medication are needed. Remember, it’s always best to communicate your concerns in detail to your healthcare provider for tailored guidance.
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