Whether a goiter needs treatment depends on the answers to the three key clinical questions. If the thyroid is so large as to cause symptoms by stretching or compressing adjacent structures, or if it is so big as to be unsightly, surgical removal of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) may be required.

What happens if a goiter is left untreated?

Goiter can cause cosmetic concerns and affect breathing and swallowing. Cardiac (heart) problems: Hypothyroidism increases the risk of heart disease, causes irregular heart rate and heart failure.

Does a thyroid goiter have to be removed?

If your goitre is interfering with your breathing or swallowing and it has not responded to other forms of treatment, you may need surgery to remove part or all of your thyroid gland. This procedure is known as a thyroidectomy.