Manifestation of a swollen neck
Standing in front of a mirror and looking at your neck. Removing all items around the neck such as scarves, ties, jewelry, or turtlenecks that may obstruct vision. Gently rub your finger in the area around the thyroid gland to look for or feel for an enlarged, lumpy, or bumpy swelling. Know the difference between the thyroid gland and other structures of the neck by gently running your finger along the bottom of the chin down to the neck. The first hard structure to hit is the thyroid cartilage that leads to Adam's apple.
Thyroid diseases such as goiter or thyroiditis will always be accompanied by a most obvious manifestation of a swollen neck or goiter. This condition is often accompanied by an iodine deficiency that causes difficulty breathing or talking. Sudden swelling of the thyroid gland, abnormally large, uncomfortable feeling when wearing a high collar shirt or tie is the most recognizable benign goiter symptoms. Therefore, you should also see a specialist if you notice a feeling of tightness in the throat, neck pain, difficulty swallowing, painful swallowing, or difficulty breathing while sleeping.