hormonal and metabolic disorders
Simple Nontoxic Goiter
Treatment of Simple Nontoxic Goiter
Sometimes iodine supplements Sometimes thyroid hormone replacement Sometimes surgery Treatment depends on the size and cause of goiter. In iodine-deficient areas, people are given iodine supplements. Iodine may be added to salt, water, or crops to eliminate iodine deficiency in the area. People should stop eating foods that inhibit thyroid hormone production, for example, cassava, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. When diet is not a cause, some people may be given thyroid hormone replacement withlevothyroxine. This medication blocks production of thyroid-stimulating hormone and may shrink the goiter. People with very large goiters may need surgery to remove part of the thyroid or may be given radioactive iodine to shrink the gland enough to prevent interference with breathing or swallowing or to correct cosmetic problems. 