What will happen if thyroid cancer is not treated

If thyroid cancer is not treated, it may lead to worsening of the disease or even distant metastasis. Thyroid cancer is a common malignant tumor. Patients usually have no obvious symptoms in the early stage. When the tumor grows, symptoms such as a lump in the front of the neck, dull pain in the front of the neck, or discomfort in swallowing may occur.

1. Worsening of the condition: The cause of thyroid cancer is still unclear, and it may be related to factors such as genetics and ionizing radiation. If not treated in time, as the disease progresses, thyroid cancer may gradually increase in size. If it is papillary or follicular cancer, cervical lymph node metastasis may also occur. At this time, the patient's condition will gradually worsen, and symptoms such as local pain and hoarseness may occur;

2. Distant metastasis: Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor. If it is not treated in time, as the disease progresses, distant metastasis may occur. For example, lung metastasis, bone metastasis, etc., the patient will experience symptoms such as coughing, sputum, and difficulty breathing. Bone metastasis will also cause symptoms of bone pain, and in severe cases, pathological fractures will occur;

3. Other situations: If thyroid cancer is not treated, it may lead to hypothyroidism. Because thyroid cancer affects the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones, in the early stages of the disease, the patient may not show obvious clinical symptoms due to the body's strong compensatory ability. However, as the disease progresses, the patient will experience symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and chills.

Patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer are advised to follow the doctor's advice for surgical treatment in a timely manner, and cooperate with auxiliary treatment measures such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In daily life, they should also pay attention to maintaining a good attitude and avoid excessive tension and anxiety.