Goitre is a common thyroid disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes enlarged and can cause a visible swelling in the neck. The thyroid gland is located in the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Goitre can be caused by a variety of factors, including iodine deficiency, autoimmune diseases, genetic factors, and certain medications. NHS states that goitres are not usually serious but should be checked by a GP.
Wide range of treatments is available for Goitre and medical tourism would be of great support for treating goitre. Platforms like Medditour help the patients suffering from goitre by connecting them to global hospitals and facilitators, thereby supporting in getting cost-effective treatment on time.
In this article, let’s understand about goitre in more detail, treatments available for treating goitre, and how medical tourism would support the patients in getting treatments for it.
Goitre: symptoms and treatments
Goitre can cause a range of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, shortness of breath, and a visible swelling in the neck. In some cases, goitre can also cause an overactive or underactive thyroid gland, which can lead to a range of other health problems. Johns Hopkins Medicine states that a goiter is typically not dangerous, unless the underlying cause of thyroid enlargement is a thyroid cancer.
There are several treatments available for goitre, depending on the underlying cause of the condition. In many cases, goitre can be treated with medication, such as thyroid hormone replacement therapy or medications that help to reduce the size of the thyroid gland. In other cases, surgery may be necessary to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for goitre caused by an underactive thyroid gland. This involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone to replace the hormones that the thyroid gland is not producing. This can help to reduce the size of the thyroid gland and relieve symptoms.
Medications that help to reduce the size of the thyroid gland, such as iodine supplements, may be prescribed for goitre caused by iodine deficiency. These medications can help to increase the amount of iodine in the body and reduce the size of the thyroid gland.
Surgery may be necessary for goitre that is causing significant symptoms or if the thyroid gland is overactive. In this procedure, part or all of the thyroid gland is removed. This can be done through a traditional open surgery or a minimally invasive procedure called a thyroidectomy. Health Grades states that a thyroidectomy is a common but major surgery with serious risks and potential complications.
Role of medical tourism in the treatment of goitre
Medical tourism is becoming an increasingly popular option for people seeking treatment for goitre. One of the main benefits of medical tourism for goitre treatment is cost savings. Medical treatments can be expensive in many countries, including the United States and Western Europe. By traveling to a country with lower healthcare costs, patients can save a significant amount of money on their medical treatment.
In addition to cost savings, medical tourism can also provide access to high-quality medical care that may not be available in one’s home country. Many countries that are popular medical tourism destinations, such as India, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Turkey, Dubai, etc. have highly trained and experienced medical professionals who can provide state-of-the-art treatment for goitre.
Companies like Medditour offer opportunities for the patients with goitre to combine their treatment with vacation at international destinations that favor medical tourism, which could be a great chance for the patients to relax and get relieved from the stress due to the treatment / surgery. It would also help them in spending time at international tourist destinations with their families.
In conclusion, goitre is a common thyroid disorder that can be treated with medication or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the condition. Medical tourism can provide a cost-effective and high-quality option for patients seeking treatment for goitre.