(1) Goitre is the enlargement of thyroid gland. It is easily visible at the base of neck when a person is suffering from it.
(2) Goitre is of two types.
1. Simple goitre : It is also called endemic goitre. This is due to iodine deficiency in the food. This causes iodine deficit in blood. In an attempt to take more iodine from blood, the blood supply to the gland increases. This results in swelling on the thyroid.
2. Exophthalmic goitre : It is also called toxic goitre. This is due to hyperactive thyroid gland. This can happen if there is overstimulation of thyroid due to excess of ACTH. This disorder is also called Grave’s disease or hyperthyroidism.
