Symptoms of tracheal compression due to hyperthyroidism include difficulty breathing, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment options include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. Tracheal compression in hyperthyroidism is usually caused by an enlarged thyroid gland compressing surrounding tissues, leading to tracheal compression and a series of symptoms. Hyperthyroidism is a disease caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, and thyroid enlargement is one of its common manifestations. The thyroid gland is located in the neck, close to the trachea. When the thyroid gland enlarges, it can compress the trachea, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Difficulty breathing is a direct manifestation of tracheal compression; patients may feel short of breath or have difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat. Hoarseness is caused by the enlarged thyroid gland compressing the recurrent laryngeal nerve, affecting vocal cord function. Difficulty swallowing occurs when the enlarged thyroid gland compresses the esophagus, obstructing the passage of food.
Drug therapy is a common treatment for hyperthyroidism, relieving symptoms by inhibiting the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones. Commonly used drugs include methimazole and propylthiouracil, which should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Radioactive iodine therapy involves orally administering radioactive iodine to destroy thyroid tissue and reduce the secretion of thyroid hormones. Surgical treatment is suitable for patients with severe goiter or those unresponsive to drug therapy. It involves removing part or all of the thyroid gland to relieve tracheal compression. Surgical procedures include subtotal thyroidectomy and total thyroidectomy, the choice of which depends on the patient's specific condition.
Dietary management can also be helpful for patients with hyperthyroidism. It is recommended to choose a low-iodine diet, avoiding high-iodine foods such as kelp and seaweed, while increasing the intake of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fresh vegetables and fruits. Appropriate exercise can help improve respiratory function, but strenuous exercise should be avoided to prevent worsening breathing difficulties. Psychological support is equally important for patients with hyperthyroidism; maintaining a cheerful mood and avoiding emotional fluctuations can help stabilize the condition.
Symptoms of tracheal compression caused by hyperthyroidism require timely medical attention. Treatment with medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery, combined with dietary adjustments and appropriate exercise, can effectively alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.