A small goiter is usually benign. While it won't require treatment, doctors will monitor this minor inflammation of the thyroid to see if the problem becomes bigger. A good way to monitor the growth is during parts of a daily routine that involve touching the neck or face, like when washing your face or putting on or taking off makeup. Goiters are more common in women, but men can get them too and can use shaving as a regular reminder to keep an eye on the swelling. If a goiter continues to grow, your doctor will start treatment based on whether the thyroid is overactive or underactive.