From Thyroid to Throat: ENT Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Disease
Hashimoto’s disease—also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis—is a common autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland. While most people associate it with fatigue, weight gain, or hormonal imbalances, many of its symptoms are actually ENT-related. If you’re experiencing unexplained throat discomfort, voice changes, or difficulty swallowing, your thyroid might be the hidden cause.
In this blog, our ENT consultant in Dubai explain how Hashimoto’s disease affects the ears, nose, and throat—and when to seek medical help.
🩺 What Is Hashimoto’s Disease?
Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Over time, the thyroid becomes inflamed and may shrink or form a goiter (swelling in the neck).
👂👃🗣️ Common ENT Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Disease
Hashimoto’s doesn’t just affect your energy and metabolism—it can show up in ways that ENT doctors see every day:
1. Throat Tightness or Discomfort
- Feeling of pressure or fullness in the neck.
- Often mistaken for a “lump in the throat” (globus sensation).
- Can worsen when lying down.
2. Voice Changes (Hoarseness)
- Chronic hoarseness or voice fatigue.
- Caused by thyroid inflammation pressing on the vocal cords or laryngeal nerves.
3. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)
- Enlarged thyroid (goiter) may press on the esophagus.
- May feel like food is “stuck” in the throat.
4. Swollen Neck or Goiter
- Visible or palpable swelling in the front of the neck.
- Often one of the earliest signs detected during an ENT neck exam or thyroid ultrasound.
5. Ear Pressure or Pain
- Rarely, thyroid enlargement or lymph node swelling can refer pressure to the ear area.
- Some patients report ear fullness with no clear ear infection.
🧪 How Our ENT Clinic Diagnoses Hashimoto’s-Related Symptoms
At ENT Clinic of Excellence, the best ENT clinic in Dubai, we take a comprehensive approach:
✔️ Neck examination to check for thyroid enlargement or nodules
✔️ Thyroid ultrasound to assess size, shape, and structure
✔️ Blood tests (TSH, Free T4, and Anti-TPO antibodies)
✔️ Flexible endoscopy if voice or swallowing changes are present
Early detection makes a big difference in managing symptoms and preventing complications.
🧘♀️ When to See an ENT Specialist/ Consultant
You should book an appointment if you experience:
- Persistent hoarseness or voice fatigue
- Neck swelling or visible lump
- Difficulty swallowing or throat tightness
- Chronic sore throat with no infection
- Feeling of pressure in the ears or throat
📍 Visit the Best ENT Clinic in Dubai
At ENT Clinic of Excellence, we understand the subtle signs of thyroid disease that others may overlook. Whether you’re already diagnosed with Hashimoto’s or suspect something is wrong, our team is here to help you breathe, speak, and swallow with comfort again.
📍 Convenient location
🕒 Short wait times
📷 On-site ultrasound
✅ Expert, compassionate care
🗓️ Book your consultation today and get the expert care your thyroid—and throat—deserve. 💙