Thyroid nodules are small lumps that can form in the thyroid gland, which is located in the front of your neck. These nodules can vary in size and are often discovered during routine medical exams or imaging tests. Most thyroid nodules are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, and many people may not even notice they have them.
While most nodules do not cause symptoms, some can lead to issues like difficulty swallowing or changes in hormone levels. If a nodule is suspected to be problematic, doctors may recommend tests, such as a fine needle aspiration biopsy, to determine if it is cancerous or requires treatment.