Goiter is also the term used for an enlarged thyroid gland, which causes visible (and sometimes severe) swelling of the throat. Goiter is usually a symptom of an underlying disorder, often a vitamin deficiency. It is common in third-world countries where general health, especially among children, can be poor.

A principal cause of goiter is a diet lacking iodide. In developed countries, most table salt is fortified with iodide and goiter is uncommon.