Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
Goiter
Moderate
2
Symptoms
4
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Retinal Detachment
Moderate
3
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
Goiter
Goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located at the front of the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. A goiter may involve the entire thyroid gland or may occur with one or more thyroid nodules. Some people have no symptoms other than visible or palpable enlargement of the neck. A large goiter can sometimes press on the windpipe or esophagus and cause breathing, coughing, hoarseness, or swallowing problems.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the tissues that support it at the back of the eye. It is a serious eye condition that can cause sudden flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, a shadow or curtain across the field of vision, or loss of vision. Prompt medical treatment is important because prolonged separation can permanently damage retinal cells.
Symptoms
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Cough HoarsenessOnly in Right Disease
Blurred Vision Noisy Breathing Vision LossCauses
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Genetics High Cholesterol Obesity StressOnly in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
Goiter
Evaluation of a goiter begins with examination of the neck and thyroid gland. Blood tests can measure thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroid hormones such as free T4. Thyroid ultrasound can identify enlargement and examine nodules or other structural changes. A thyroid scan and radioactive iodine uptake study may be used in selected cases to assess thyroid function. If a nodule has suspicious features, a biopsy may be recommended to determine whether cancer is present.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is diagnosed through an urgent dilated eye examination. An ophthalmologist examines the retina for tears, holes, bleeding, or separation from the underlying tissue. Ultrasound imaging of the eye may be used when the retina cannot be seen clearly, such as when there is significant bleeding or clouding of the eye. The extent and location of the detachment guide treatment decisions.
Prevention
Goiter
Adequate iodine intake can prevent many cases of simple goiter caused by iodine deficiency. Using iodized salt appropriately is an established way to maintain adequate iodine intake in populations where deficiency is a concern. Other causes, such as autoimmune thyroid disease or genetic susceptibility, cannot always be prevented. Avoiding unnecessary exposure to factors that affect thyroid function and obtaining medical evaluation for persistent neck swelling can help identify thyroid disorders early.
Retinal Detachment
Some retinal detachments cannot be prevented, but prompt treatment of retinal tears or holes can prevent certain detachments from developing. People at increased risk should follow recommended eye examinations. Wearing appropriate eye protection during activities that could cause eye injury can reduce trauma-related risk. Sudden flashes, a new shower of floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in vision require immediate eye evaluation.
Risk Factors
Goiter
Risk factors vary according to the underlying cause. Being over age 40, having a family history of goiter, and living or having grown up in an area where iodine deficiency occurs can increase risk of some types. Women are more frequently affected by simple goiter. Autoimmune thyroid disease, certain medicines, smoking, and conditions that cause thyroid nodules or abnormal thyroid hormone production can also increase the likelihood of thyroid enlargement.
Retinal Detachment
Risk factors include increasing age, severe nearsightedness, previous cataract or other eye surgery, previous retinal detachment in either eye, significant eye injury, and a family history of retinal detachment. Certain retinal disorders and conditions that cause abnormal blood-vessel growth or scarring can also increase risk. The presence of some risk factors does not mean detachment will occur.
Treatment
Goiter
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Retinal Detachment
Treatment comparison will be available soon.