In many cases, patients with thyroid nodules do not experience any symptoms and are unaware of their condition. However, some patients may discover a lump in the front portion of their neck that appears to grow larger over time. Large nodules that press against the esophagus (tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach) or trachea (windpipe) may cause discomfort or pressure when swallowing. They may also cause breathing difficulties. Large nodules also can cause pain in the ear, jaw or neck. In rare cases, the nodule may irritate a nerve in the voice box, leading to hoarseness.

Nodules that are cancerous are more likely than noncancerous nodules to cause hoarseness, breathing difficulties (dyspnea) and swallowing problems (dysphagia). Cancerous nodules also tend to grow more quickly, become harder and may cause the lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck to become enlarged.

Difficulty breathing or swallowing may also be symptoms of other conditions, including multinodular goiter (a type of goiter) or Riedel’s thyroiditis (a rare form of thyroiditis). Thyroid nodules also may be associated with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.