acute thyroiditis

Categories: thyroiditis

Read and learn more about acute thyroiditis. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Does thyroid mis-function cause nail discoloration?
I have noticed discoloration of my nails on my fingers (almost all of them) have some sort of streaks and some form of semi dark lines. It seems to have started after Sub Acute Thyroiditis 2 years ago. Even though my thyroid fuction seems to have retruned to normal but these discolorations on my nails remain. Can you comment on this issue please. My dermotologist says that it is conclusive that it is related to my thyroid misfunction and unfortunately there is nothing he can do or subscribe to make it better.

A: Yes-I suffer from nail discoloration due to hypo-thyroidism myself and I found that zinc and calcium supplements have almost made them disappear : )

Q: My hair is falling out like crazy and i don’t know what to do about it!!!!?
For the past 6 years i have had this recurring problem. I had a blood test done when my hair first started to fall out. I found out that i had severe acute thyroiditis and this is one of the symptoms, since then i have been taking pills to balance my thyroid. Nonetheless my hair continues to fall out. My question then is why is this happening ?
Another problem : I have had 3 miscarriages… and yes i have done tests on that and it turned out normal…
If any one has any questions let me know and i will post it…. please if you can give me any answers to this problem i would be most greatful!
/ medical info…

A: I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and I did have some hair loss before I was balanced chemically on the medication. I found it helpful and productive to work with a nutritionist to make sure I was getting all the other nutrients and vitamins I needed for healthy hair, nails and skin. You can also log your food on fitday.com and run the nutrition report to see if that shows any glaring nutrient deficits.

Good luck.

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underactive thyroid symptoms

Categories: thyroid symptoms

Read and learn more about underactive thyroid symptoms. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Are underactive thyroid symptoms similar to any other disorder?

A: yes i have an underactive thyroid and the symptoms are very similar to depression. ie feeling tired, not sleeping properly low sex drive, low moods etc. if u are worried look on nhs direct website and u can diagnose yourself based on your symptoms or visit your gp. hope u feel better

Q: Underactive thyroid symptoms?
My mom has an overactive thyroid- and I think I have an Underactive thyroid…..I always feel sluggish, hungry and I’m always bloated, I have also gained some weight recently.. Are there any other symptoms with an underactive thyroid? I going to a doctor next week but I would like to get a little bit of info about it.

Thanks :)

A: Being anxious and even depressed can sometimes be a symptom of an underactive thyroid for some people (an example only but I have read about this and talked to others who have had similar symptoms).

I am also including the link to a site that may help you find even more information:

http://thyroid.about.com

Q: Can underactive thyroid function symptoms be similar to early pregnancy symptoms?

A: Yes
My sister has an underactive thyroid
Answer mine

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AsKTc9xeJQWKO5dm0kKj39Xsy6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20080827071251AANLkhb

Q: Will my underactive thyroid symptoms go away once I start my meds?
I have a VERY LOW underactive thyroid (according to my doctor it is terribly low).

I have really bad symptoms like everything with me is wrong, my hair falls out like no tomorrow, just chunks at a time, and its like dead straw hair. my muscles are super weak, if I write two sentences my arms will start to ache, I recently gained 30 pounds (when I was eating less and exercising more, my doctor says its cause my metabolism is so slow from my underactive thyroid thats why I am gaining weight), I get really bad shortness in breathe, pale, poor memory, swollen hands and feet, Hoarseness or deepening of the voice, brittle thin nails, bad immune system, heavy periods, joint pain, EVERYTHING! it causes soo many problems, ecspecially with the horsey throat and the dry hair falling out soo much, weight gain, swollen fingers and muscle soreness there my main big problems..
they are truly ruining my life, I am starting my meds next week, are my symptoms going to gradually go away (I really hope so) or am I going to have them all my life. Pleaseee people help me and answer me my mind is baffled with these questions, I need a clear answers.

Thank you soo much, GOD BLESS!

A: It may take a couple of weeks, but you will definitely feel much better. Most of the time, the doctor will start you on an estimated dose then draw your blood level in a week or two, then adjust your dose until they get it just right. Be patient; you will be fine.

Q: what r the symptoms of an underactive thyroid?
I have been extremely tired for the past week and have dry and sore eyes. are these symptoms.. going to ring my doc tomorrow and try and get appt.

A: Not much there to suggest thyroid disease. Most doctors would not investigate tiredness present for any less than 4 weeks in the absence of any more significant symptoms.

Q: symptoms of overactive and underactive thyroid?
i think i may have an overactive thyroid but dont know what the symptoms are! can anyone please help explain what symptoms might occur with an underactive thyroid and an overactive thyroid please?
im mainly asking because my moods havent been good lately, i thought maybe my pill had been the problem but ive been on it for 4 years and ive only just become moody lol
also, excessive hair i thought was down to an overactive thyroid…is that right?

A: overactive thyroid

you will sweat a lot
weight loss over a few months
your eyeballs may be popping out.
you might have palpitations
your palms will be warm and sweaty
you will feel anxious and jittery.
high pulse

underactive thyroid ( opposite to evrythin thats there in overactive)

mostly it will be unexplained weight gain..
lethargy… you might not feel like doing stuff u used to..
cold palms and soles..

Q: underactive thyroid………………?
i have had blood tests and says im on borderline of an underactive thyroid i feel so lifeless im getting deppressed and these are symptoms of underactive thyroid this is my second lot of tests ive had as well but the doctor wont give me anything to help it does anyone have any advice on what to do please

A: Underactive thyroid needs to be treated with medication so that your body gets the thyroiud hormones it needs – there is NO other way.
Your symptoms are clearly thyroid related and if your doctor won’t treat you, you need a new doctor who knows whatr they’re doing or an endocrinologost who is experienced in treat the thyroid.
When you say borderline, you need to find out exactly what your levels (test results) are? You are ENTITLED to this information, The do some research. If they are over 3 or 4 and certainly over 5, then you NEED treatment and the doctor need sto be reminded that refusal to treat IS a problem.

Q: What are your thyroid symptoms?
I’ve read all the literature and some other questions, but I want to know YOUR symptoms of an over or underactive thyroid. What do you experience? I think mine is low, but I haven’t had it checked yet. What do you say to the doctor if it is a low normal and they don’t think you need meds, but you know it just ain’t workin’ for you? “Give me some freakin’ drugs!”?
Holy crap! That low temperature thing is totally me! Who knew?!

A: I know exactly what you’re talking about.

You know you aren’t feeling right. You just KNOW it’s probably your thyroid, because according to all the literature, and everyone you talk to, your symptoms and the way you just “feel” match a diagnosis of thyroid deficiency perfectly.

BUT… you go into your doc’s office, he draws blood. You ask him to be sure to check both T3 and T4. Reluctantly he says okay, acting like the patient shouldn’t be making suggestions like that. So the results come back, and what a surprise, they are within “normal limits.” Am I right?

So, here’s what worked for me. First, I came upon this website for Dr. Wilson’s Temperature Syndrome. This is a naturopath, I think, who presents compelling evidence that people with otherwise normal thyroid blood results, but who have lower than normal body temperature, can be helped with his particular thyroid therapy. It’s the real deal, and it works.

I went to my doctor, told her the situation, explained why I thought I might be a candidate for this therapy, and she went ahead and gave me cytomel. It is a pre-thyroid hormone, or something like that. Look it up to be sure I’m not giving you incorrect information about the cytomel. Anyhoo, it has worked wonders for me.

My symptoms (and on the Wilson website you’ll be surprised how many of them there are!), have almost completely subsided. We started at 50 micrograms (mcg), and I am at 150 mcg right now, and expect that’s where I’ll stay.

She told me that the main possible side effect is osteoporosis from the cytomel. However, I am going to have the bone density scans done as time goes by. I’m being careful about the calcium content of my diet, and I do weight bearing exercise to try and keep my bones pointing in the right direction.

Check out the Wilson’s Temperature Syndrome website, and see what you find out. If your doctor says no, try a different doctor.

I am very lucky with mine, in that she recently graduated and is still loving her profession. She is also open to new possibilities and new ideas. Try a young doctor if your current one isn’t doing it for you.

Good luck, and keep pushing for this. It just might work for you, and if it does, you’ll wonder where the real you has been hiding! Your body should have the proper hormones to feel and function right!

Incidently, my symptoms included extreme fatigue, uncaring or unwilling to move through the day, constipation, body aches, being cold or chilly a lot, feeling kind of “foggy”, losing words when I was talking… I KNEW the word I wanted to say, but couldn’t recall what it was… things like that. Once I was driving and all of a sudden just panicked because I thought I was going the wrong way on a 1 way road. Totally not the way it was, but I was confused and frightened. Only happened once, but it felt like just a severe mental fog setting in briefly. Nothing even similar to that has happened since I started on the cytomel. All the symptoms have lifted, and the lack of fogginess and having some energy (not an abnormal amount, just a NORMAL amount), feels great!

Hang in there, and keep trying. Check out cytomel on the net and learn about it so that when you talk with your doctor, you will be informed and ready to champion your cause. It’s your body, make sure that whatever doctor you have knows that is how you feel!

Q: What are symptoms of a child with a underactive thyroid?

A: Symptoms of hypothyroidism in a child may include weight gain; not growing in height, fatigue, depression, mood changes, constipation, muscle and joint aches, dry skin, headaches, and all the other symptoms that adults can get like, low blood pressure, vertigo, slow heart rate, low body temp, feeling cold especially hands and feet, ridged fingernails, dry thinning hair, sore throat, sleep apnea, sensitivity to light, and thinning eyebrows

Q: Is an underactive thyroid if left untreated harmful?
I have had symptoms of an underactive thyroid for almost 2 years now (tiredness, rapid weight gain, feeling cold and then hot, numb toes and arms etc) is it harmful if left untreated? Also is there any pills I can buy over the counter (in the UK) that can help regulate my thyroid? Thanks

A: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of certain important hormones.

Women, especially those older than 50, are more likely to have hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism upsets the normal balance of chemical reactions in your body. It seldom causes symptoms in the early stages, but over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.

The good news is that accurate thyroid function tests are available to diagnose hypothyroidism, and treatment of hypothyroidism with synthetic thyroid hormone is usually simple, safe and effective once the proper dosage is established.

You will need to see a doctor who will determine how much thyroid hormone you will need. This medication is very inexpensive but you will need to be tested by your doctor from time to time.

Q: Question on med Levothyroxine for underactive thyroid?
I was told by my doctor recently that I have an underactive thyroid (never had that before I am 44) so he put me on Levothyroxine. Once a day 0.100MG. I am wondering if anyone has any good or bad news on this drug or personal experience and their symptoms of an underactive thyroid because I feel okay. (Aside from being tired). Thanks.

A: Many women become low thyroid as they get older.

I was diagnosed with low thyroid when I went in for a physical before getting pregnant. I was 39 years old and was unaware of any symptoms. As far as drugs and side effects go, levothyroxine is much better than most pharmaceuticals.

However, some people don’t do all that well with levothyroxine, and since it is the standard drug for docs to prescribe with low thyroid, if you are one of the people who doesn’t do well on it, you may have a tough road ahead to get someone to do the tests and experimenting you will need to get the right medicine and the right dose.

As time went on I did feel very tired, even on the drug, and had other symptoms as well (shortness of breath, confused thinking, hard to lose weight). The symptoms can be very subtle – so subtle that you don’t notice them until you feel better due to drugs or whatever, then you say “wow, I feel like myself again. I didn’t even notice how bad I was feeling.”

A great website for info is http://thyroid.about.com

Q: Underactive Thyroid?
I got my blood tests back and been diagnosed with borderline underactive thyroid disease – as it is borderline my doctor has decided to take blood tests in a couple of weeks to decide if I need the treatment , has anyone got any information they could provide or personal experiences or symptoms?

I am 22 by the way. Thanks :)

A: Many patients remain borderline for many years, so your doctor is right not to be in any hurry to treat you. Once this decision is made you will be on levothyroxine for life.

Classically patients with frank underactive thyroids are cold, slow, have dry skin, slow pulse and may gain weight.

Q: what are the symptoms of an over/underactive thyroid gland?

A: Overactive – loosing weight, heart palpitations, shaking hands, heat intolerance, greasy hair / acne, bulging eyes, gritty eyes – basically your body overworking because its got too much thyroid hormone in your blood. These are the symptoms I had before treatment.

Underactive – putting on weight or unable to loose any weight, feeling the cold, dry skin, headaches, pins and needles, tiredness – the opposite of overactive, in that your body does not have enough thyroid hormone. These are the symptoms I have now that I’ve gone the opposite end of the scale due to RAI treatment.

Q: Started a vegan diet about two months ago, I have recently had symptoms of an underactive thyroid?
I started eating a vegan diet about 3 months ago. In the last 2 weeks, I’m freezing all of the time (I live in the Arizona, so it’s not exactly cold), my skin has gotten drier, always sleepy, sore muscles for no reason. I’m on the thin side, but I always have been.

could it be soy milk inhibiting my thyroid? I drink about a glass or two a day.
I am well-versed in nutrition. For the first two weeks of eating, I anally documented everything I ate and changed my diet accordingly to meet dietary needs.
and that’s how I started drinking soy milk – for calcium and B12, the two nutrients I was lacking.

A: First of all, do not attempt to self-diagnose a problem. This should be done by a doctor. You could go down a list of symptoms and it could match almost anything. You may have an infection for all you know.

Are you not using iodized salt? If you have an iodine deficiency, this could cause thyroid problems http://www.vegfamily.com/dietician/1006a.htm Salt has been iodized in the US for the better part of the past century for all people– including meat eaters. If you don’t use it, you need to get a bit of iodine in your diet somewhere– about 150 mcg. http://veganhealth.org/articles/iodine/

I’m going to assume, because of your thin condition, that you do not eat a whole lot of food. Is that a correct assumption? Do you have any kind of eating disorder? Make sure you eat enough food to maintain a healthy weight, and meet your nutritional needs– such as getting enough iron, calcium, and other micronutrients. Iron is especially important for females who have their monthly period, because you lose iron when you bleed. If you are female and you’re of menstruating age, you need more iron than a male. Vegetarians may also need a bit more iron from plant sources because it is nonheme. http://veganhealth.org/articles/iron/

You also want to be sure you’re eating vitamin B12 daily in either a supplement or in fortified foods in addition to eating a healthy diet. Here’s an excellent website on vegetarian and vegan nutrition http://www.vrg.org/

edit: The reason I mentioned iodine was because you asked about soy and thyroid. The American Dietetic Association stated, “Foods such as soybeans, cruciferous vegetables, and sweet potatoes contain natural goitrogens. These foods have not been associated with thyroid insufficiency in healthy people provided iodine intake is adequate (They cited Messina M, Redmond G. Effects of soy protein and soybean isoflavones on thyroid function in healthy adults and hypothyroid patients: a review of the relevant literature. Thyroid. 2006;16:249-258.).” http://www.eatright.org/ada/files/VegetarianPositionFINAL.pdf If your iodine is fine, this research indicates that it’s not the soy that would cause a thyroid problem.

Q: Can the symptoms of diabetes and underactive thyroid be the same?
SORRY FOR ASKING SO MUCH
A little over a year ago I woke up from drinking and felt like shit, which usually isn’t the case. The next two months or so I started to notice that I was urinating a lot and drinking a lot more water than usual. Then I moved from Pennsylvania to Denver and really started to notice the difference. Every day I would wake up feeling as if I had a hangover. I thought it was just the altitude difference but as time went on things got even worse. So I went to the doctors to see if I was diabetic and they said I have an underactive thyroid. They gave me .05mg of levothyroxine “which isn’t a lot from what I understand” and I have been on it for almost a year now. They said I may be sensitive to high level as glucose but should just eat right and exercise. So I have a few questions
1.I’m only 21, is that normal
2.I wasn’t and still am not fat for having a “decrease appetite”
3.I still tend to get dry mouth and urinate a lot “back at sea level, Rhode island lots of humidity”
4.My meds say not to eat anything for an hour after taking it, which if I eat anything within 1.5-2hrs I usually feel like shit and get extreme dry mouth.
5.And ever since college I started to wet to bed every couple months “usually after drinking” is this because of excess blood sugar

A: to me its not the same but why not have a test and find out if you have sugar problems also. its a different test but it could be sugar problems and not that other i am not sure which type of doctor ou saw but i would take and find out cause sugar can make you feel bad and it can tire you out and it could b that instead.

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thyroid symptoms

Categories: thyroid symptoms

Read and learn more about thyroid symptoms. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Thyroid symptoms?
HI, I have dealt with my thyroid for almost 15 years. Off and on the symptoms return, my thyroid levels balanced or not. My question is, can the symptoms of Hyperthyroidism, and Hypothyroidism intermingle? For example, the biggest symptoms have been fatigue, nervousness, etc. but another big one has been the numbness in only my left arm. Also in my left arm, I feel the strong pulse and weakness. Any help would be great, thanks.

A: yes, to answer your question, hyper and hypothyroidism symptoms can mesh together. Fatigue is the biggest one that is present in both. But hyperthyroidism is usually associated with your body being more revved up than it should be causing you to have a higher basal metabolic rate, thus causing WT loss, anxiety, sweating, hot temper, heat intolerance whereas hypo is the exact opposite. There are a number of conditions in which you may switch from hyper to hypo. One of them that comes to mind is after treatment for hyperthyroid, there may be too drastic a swing and you’d become hypo. Its best to see your doctor about your concerns and he’ll probably order up a T3/T4 lvl and TSH test maybe a thyroid scan. Best of luck. 15 years is a long time to suffer, so go see your doc! My guess though would be that you’re more leaning on the hyperthyroid side of things.

Q: Thyroid Symptoms????
I think I have a slow thyroid…what are some of the signs? Any help would help..I don’t have money for the doctor yet.

A: Hypothyroidism symptom may include:

Fatigue
Sluggishness
Increased sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Pale, dry skin
A puffy face
Hoarse voice
An elevated blood cholesterol level
Unexplained weight gain
Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
Pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints
Muscle weakness
Heavier than normal menstrual periods
Brittle fingernails and hair
Depression
___________________________________________________

The link below has additonal information as well.

Good luck!

Q: What are some thyroid symptoms? What is the procedure for getting it checked?
Ive been tired alot more lately for no reason really other then my sleep is messed up & I like to stay up late & then sleep during the day, but I get adequate hrs of sleep (8-10) I cant seem to lose weight either, I heard that this could be from thyroid problems. What are some of the symptoms & how does it get checked?

A: I recently was diagnosed with a thyroid disease. I would sleep about 16 hours a day and was tired all the time. Not being able to loose weight could be due to a hypo active thyroid. You will the really cranky and if it is really bad it could hurt when people touch you and easily bruise. Also increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, puffy face, hoarse voice. These are some possible symptoms. All you need to do to get it checked is a blood test. There are different level tests so make sure they do the secondary with the T3, T4, and TSH and so on. Even if you don’t have these symptoms I would get checked, because when they found the thyroid problem I only had the sleepiness. You should go to your doctor and get your thyroid checked if you think it is a possibility, if you let it go untreated for to long it can make you really sick. All you have to do is take a pill every day.

Your sleepiness could also be sleep apnea, so if your thyroid comes back normal look into that.

Also if it comes back normal one day get it checked again because it can be normal one day and not normal the next.

Hope this helps!

Q: What were your thyroid cancer symptoms?
I was just diagnosed with hypothyroidism as well as nodules that may be cancerous. To those of you who have had thyroid cancer, what kinds of symptoms did you experience prior to your diagnosis? I know symptoms are different for everyone, but I’m really worried right now, and any information you can give me about this would be really helpful.

A: The only symptom I had was a large, hard lump on my throat. Many people have nodules, and the vast majority (95%) are benign, so more likely than not, you don’t have to worry.. Here’s a list of symptoms: http://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/thyroid/thyroid-cancer-symptoms also check out http://thyca.org for everything you’ve wanted to know about thyroid cancer.

Q: Due to my hyperactive thyroid symptoms, I want to cut my hair…?
I’m 15 years old and have all of the symptoms of a hyperactive thyroid, though only two of my doctors have seen it. One of the symptoms is thinning hair and eyebrows, both of which I have. I’ve had long hair all of my life but now that it is thinning, should I cut it short and save myself from any further embarrassment? Or should I just wait for it to get shorter and shorter?

A: i would cut it because that way you have control over how it looks you know? but i would wait until you are really sure it’s time to give up on your beautiful long locks. once you’ve decided to go short, go to the hair salon and ask for a really cute short cut. something flirty and fun! good luck and i hope everything goes well (:

Q: Does anyone know what the symptoms of thyroid problems are?
My sister told me see was having blood work done because her doctor thinks her symptoms may be explained by a thyroid problem. What are some common symptoms? She says one of her symptoms is her hair falling out. I can’t find anything about that symptom as related to thyroid problems!

A: The thyroid gland, which is in your neck, sets the rate at which you produce energy from your body’s stores by the release of thyroid hormones.

Hyperthyroid
If you’re producing too much hormone, and the gland is overactive, you’re said to be hyperthyroid. You’ll have too much energy, lose weight, feel warm and may have symptoms such as palpitations.

There are many causes of an overactive thyroid and you may need blood tests and scans to find out what’s responsible.

The most common reason is when your body’s defences falsely recognise your own tissue as an invader and begin to attack it. This is called autoimmune disease and it stimulates the thyroid to produce more hormones.

If you have a cyst or growth in the thyroid, it may also produce too much hormone.

Hyperthyroidism symptoms may include:

weight loss
rapid heartbeat
tremor
excessive sweating
heat intolerance
anxiety
muscle weakness
goitre
irregular periods

Hypothyroid
If your thyroid is underactive – not producing enough hormone – you’ll have too little energy and will feel slow, tired and lethargic. You’ll become hypothyroid.

Again, there are many causes, but for some it seems to be part of the ageing process. Hypothyroidism is especially common in women after the menopause. Look for the following symptoms:

exhaustion, tiredness, sleep problems
difficulty concentrating or remembering
weight gain
dry hair, skin and nails
depression or anxiety
constipation
poor libido
breathlessness and swelling of feet
hoarseness
cold intolerance
face swelling and puffy eyes
in women, heavy periods

How many people are affected?
Hyperthyroidism affects up to one in 50 people and is ten times more common in women than in men. It can occur at any age but is most common between the ages of 20 and 50.

Hypothyroidism is ten times more common in women than in men and usually occurs over the age of 40.

What’s the treatment?
It’s difficult to prevent thyroid illness. Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone medication. Treatment of hyperthyroidism may involve medication to reduce the production of thyroid hormone, radioactive iodine therapy or a thyroidectomy (removal of part of the thyroid gland).

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in July 2006

Q: What are your thyroid symptoms?
I’ve read all the literature and some other questions, but I want to know YOUR symptoms of an over or underactive thyroid. What do you experience? I think mine is low, but I haven’t had it checked yet. What do you say to the doctor if it is a low normal and they don’t think you need meds, but you know it just ain’t workin’ for you? “Give me some freakin’ drugs!”?
Holy crap! That low temperature thing is totally me! Who knew?!

A: I know exactly what you’re talking about.

You know you aren’t feeling right. You just KNOW it’s probably your thyroid, because according to all the literature, and everyone you talk to, your symptoms and the way you just “feel” match a diagnosis of thyroid deficiency perfectly.

BUT… you go into your doc’s office, he draws blood. You ask him to be sure to check both T3 and T4. Reluctantly he says okay, acting like the patient shouldn’t be making suggestions like that. So the results come back, and what a surprise, they are within “normal limits.” Am I right?

So, here’s what worked for me. First, I came upon this website for Dr. Wilson’s Temperature Syndrome. This is a naturopath, I think, who presents compelling evidence that people with otherwise normal thyroid blood results, but who have lower than normal body temperature, can be helped with his particular thyroid therapy. It’s the real deal, and it works.

I went to my doctor, told her the situation, explained why I thought I might be a candidate for this therapy, and she went ahead and gave me cytomel. It is a pre-thyroid hormone, or something like that. Look it up to be sure I’m not giving you incorrect information about the cytomel. Anyhoo, it has worked wonders for me.

My symptoms (and on the Wilson website you’ll be surprised how many of them there are!), have almost completely subsided. We started at 50 micrograms (mcg), and I am at 150 mcg right now, and expect that’s where I’ll stay.

She told me that the main possible side effect is osteoporosis from the cytomel. However, I am going to have the bone density scans done as time goes by. I’m being careful about the calcium content of my diet, and I do weight bearing exercise to try and keep my bones pointing in the right direction.

Check out the Wilson’s Temperature Syndrome website, and see what you find out. If your doctor says no, try a different doctor.

I am very lucky with mine, in that she recently graduated and is still loving her profession. She is also open to new possibilities and new ideas. Try a young doctor if your current one isn’t doing it for you.

Good luck, and keep pushing for this. It just might work for you, and if it does, you’ll wonder where the real you has been hiding! Your body should have the proper hormones to feel and function right!

Incidently, my symptoms included extreme fatigue, uncaring or unwilling to move through the day, constipation, body aches, being cold or chilly a lot, feeling kind of “foggy”, losing words when I was talking… I KNEW the word I wanted to say, but couldn’t recall what it was… things like that. Once I was driving and all of a sudden just panicked because I thought I was going the wrong way on a 1 way road. Totally not the way it was, but I was confused and frightened. Only happened once, but it felt like just a severe mental fog setting in briefly. Nothing even similar to that has happened since I started on the cytomel. All the symptoms have lifted, and the lack of fogginess and having some energy (not an abnormal amount, just a NORMAL amount), feels great!

Hang in there, and keep trying. Check out cytomel on the net and learn about it so that when you talk with your doctor, you will be informed and ready to champion your cause. It’s your body, make sure that whatever doctor you have knows that is how you feel!

Q: Can low thyroid hormone symptoms like hair loss be reversed?
I’m a 19 year old guy, I recently found out that I have a low thyroid hormone level and I’ve had the symptom of hair loss for more than 3 years now, but it’s really starting to show now. Can it be reversed once I start taking the hormone pill that my doctor prescribed to me?

A: If the hair loss is indeed due to low thyroid (hypothyroidism), then yes, it can reverse when you take prescribed replacement therapy.

Q: anyone know the symptoms of thyroid condition?
I have been having night sweats, and inability to lose weight, and chronic fatigue. I am 26 and my mom had these symptoms when she was my age and it was her thyroid. Does anyone know what the symptoms are of a thyroid condition?

A: Thyroid problems can be genetic, primarily in females. I did not know I had until my sister was diagnosed after becoming pregnant, so my Dr. checked me and sure enough..now my other sister and mother also have.
There are two types-hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hyper–is what is pretty much what it sounds. It speeds your heart up, you tend to lose weight, you sweat a lot, etc… and Hypo-is the opposite. You can gain weight, you feel sluggish, your speech may be affected (I tend to not be able to get the words out that I want to say…); Your hair becomes brittle and can fall out, etc…
You can google, but you really should consult a Dr. because even if you don’t have now, you may get in the future. It can be resolved with a simple blood test, that you have to get every so often because your levels can change.
Good Luck and take care~

Q: what are some signs and symptoms of thyroid problems?
what are the symptoms of thyroid problems…basically,how do you know you have issues with you thyroid (male)..what happens to you…do you lose appaetite,hairloss/balding???etc…what happens?

A: Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. Symptoms would include; weight gain, difficulty losing weight, fatigue, constipation, depression, dry thinning hair, dry skin, low body temp, brain fog, decreased sex drive, muscle and joint aches

Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid. Symptoms may include; weight loss, diarrhea, anxiety, excessive sweating, headaches,

Q: what are signs or symptoms of a thyroid problem or disorder?
Hello, I have not had mine checked yet, but one of my doctors (for anxiety) told me to because I have anxiety and night sweats. I am in the process of finding a doctor to do blood work for me to get it checked. In the meantime though, can you tell me what other signs or symptoms are associated with thyroid?

Thanks

P.S.. I am 27 year old female, if that makes a difference.

A: hypothyroidism/Hashimotos disease:
fatigue
weight gain or inability to lose weight even when dieting
high (bad) cholesterol
low (good) cholesterol
high triglycerides
joint pain
light sensitivity
dry skin
depression
anxiety
arrhythmia’s
cold hands and feet
low blood pressure
fibromyalgia
tingling hands & feet
sleeping too much
heavy periods
infertility
cold intolerance
low body temperature

hyperthyroidism/Graves disease:
anxiety
heart palpitations
weight loss
bulging eyes
eye problems
aggression
trouble sleeping/inability to sleep
weight loss/inability to gain weight
fatigue
heat intolerance
elevated body temperature
high blood pressure
tacchycardia

Q: Have all the symptoms of low thyroid but my blood test was normal?
Can anyone relate to this? I have many of the classic symptoms of hypothyroidism but I don’t have low thyroid. I just got the call that my blood test showed normal. I have been living with these awful symptoms for two years now, what do I do now?
Thank you everyone for your responses, very helpful. My symptoms are: very bad muscle aches, headaches, cold intolerance, memory problems, FATIGUE, concentration problems, dry skin, dry hair, low sex drive, and some others I can’t think of because of memory problems :-)

A: What are the symptoms? Are you seeing a proper endocrinologist, or just a regular physician? They’ve narrowed the range that is “normal” so your doctor might be looking at the old range. They’re much more aggressive with treating thyroid. (I take thyroid meds and I never had symptoms, it was because of my blood test). Be AGGRESSIVE with your doctor — YOU are the client, remember!

Hypothyroidism

Clinically apparent hypothyroidism usually warrants treatment. In case the hypothyroidism is due to dietary minerals and iodine, supplementation with these may obviate the need for hormonal treatment, but only if iodine deficiency has been documented, which is very rare in the Western world. Whilst subclinical hypothyroidism is thought to have long-term consequences, such as atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease risks,[1] there is no current consensus as to the benefits of treatment in this group.[2][3]

Treatment is usually with levothyroxine (starting at 50 μg/day), a synthetic thyroxine analogue. There is no evidence suggesting that there is any need to substitute T3 as well.[4][5]

Symptoms as well as TSH levels are used to monitor effect of substitution; a high TSH level suggests treatment is not yet adequate and that dose adjustments are necessary. A low (“suppressed”) TSH may indicate the dose is too high. Some patients prefer a pig thyroid extract, natural desiccated thyroid hormones, which contains T3 as well as T4 and traces of T2, T1 and calcitonin.

Q: what is thyroid and what is the symptoms?
i just wonder what is thyroid and what is the symptoms of thyroid?

A: The thyroid is a gland in your anterior neck region supplied by the superior and recurrent laryngeal nerves and thyroid arteries. It uses iodine to produce compounds such as T3 and T4 in order to regulate normal body physiology.There is 2 types of thyroid (1)Hypothyroid (2) Hyperthyroid. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which an overactive thyroid gland is producing an excessive amount of thyroid hormones that circulate in the blood. hypothyroid deficiency of thyroid activity.
Hypothyroid:-Weight gain Puffy face
Loss or thinning of eyebrows Cold intolerance
Low sex drive Depression
Abdominal bloating Cold hands or feet
Dry or thinning hair Joint or muscle pain
Thickening of the skin Thin, brittle fingernails

Hyperthyroid Symptom:- * Excessive sweating
* Heat intolerance
* Increased bowel movements
* Tremor
* Nervousness; agitation
* Rapid heart rate
* Weight loss
* Fatigue
* Decreased concentration
* Irregular and scant menstrual flow

Q: Is there any reason for having symptoms of a thyroid problem, but having normal blood levels?
I have a lot of the symptoms, but I got my blood tested and it came back normal. My mom had hyperthroidism and had her thyroid removed. Problems in this area are hereditary, but I cant figure out why I have all the symptoms and no reason for it…. Help me?

A: You probably have what is called “Subclinical Hypothyroidism”. Basically, with this condition, the pituitary gland, which is in charge of regulating the thyroid gland, produces extra amounts of TSH to stimulate the thyroid to maintain a normal circulating level of thyroid hormones. While with “Subclinical Hypothyroidism” you technically are not Hypothyroid (thyroid hormone levels are normal), your pituitary is working hard at keeping your thyroid hormone levels within the normal range. In a significant number of patients, the TSH levels must climb in order to continue to stimulate the thyroid gland. Eventually, over the course of months to years, the thyroid gland no longer responds. At this point, “Subclinical Hypothyroidism” turns into overt Hypothyroidism. With Subclinical Hypothyroidism you will have Hypothyroid symptoms. Some doctors refuse to treat Subclinical Hypothyroidism and wait until you become fully Hypothyroid. I think this is a huge mistake. Treating Subclinical Hypothyroidism early on not only helps the patient so they don’t feel horrible, but also lessens the extent of how bad the Hypothyroidism can get. I had a doctor who refused to treat my Subclinical Hypothyroidism and I got so bad that I couldn’t hold down a job and spent most of my time in bed. I searched for a new doctor and found one that was willing to treat my Subclinical Hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, going for so long without treatment caused other problems…I ended up with heart damage, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lost most of my hair for a while and when it grew back it turned completely gray (it wasn’t before) and many other bad things happened. So it’s important to get treated right away.

I suggest you find yourself a good “thyroid doctor” called an Endocrinologist and have a simple blood test including an antibody test (sometimes called an ANA test) to see if you have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (an auto-immune disease of the thyroid which often starts out as Subclinical Hypothyroidism). Here is a good Endocrinologist locator:

http://www.armourthyroid.com/con_phLocator.aspx

I highly recommend you get the book, “Living Well with Hypothyroidism” by Mary J. Shomon. It is an easy book to read and you will learn a lot. You may buy it cheap at Amazon.com for as little as $6.05 used

(http://www.amazon.com/Living-Well-Hypothyroidism-Doctor-Revised/dp/0060740957/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1249143075&sr=8-1)

or you can get it at a book store (if they don’t have it, have them order it for you).

Once you find a good doctor that is willing to treat you have him/her put you on Armour Thyroid (a type of medication for Hypothyroidism). I was first placed on Synthroid (Levothyroxine) and although it got my thyroid levels in the normal rage, I still had the hypo symptoms and felt awful. It wasn’t until I went on Armour Thyroid that I felt like my old self again. The difference is a hormone called T3. Synthroid doesn’t have T3 in it only T4. Many in the medical field think that Hypothyroid people only need T4 and that your body will convert T4 to T3, but many people’s bodies don’t convert T4 to T3 well and that’s why they still have hypo symptoms while on Synthroid. The human thyroid gland naturally produces hormones T1, T2, T3, T4, T5…etc. Synthroid is a synthetic hormone replacement with only T4. Armour Thyroid is a natural hormone replacement and it has all the hormones your thyroid naturally produces so it stands to reason that treating a disease as naturally as possible is best. Synthroid has a huge marketing campaign with medical schools and doctors’ offices and they try to tell everyone Armour Thyroid isn’t any good. Don’t believe that. Armour Thyroid has been around for over 100 years and is very reliable and is regularly tested and approved by the American Food and Drug Administration. Because of all the negative marketing from Synthroid about Armour, you may have a difficult time getting a doctor to prescribe Armour. However, if you go to the Armour Thyroid web site and use their doctor locator you should be able to find a doctor in your area and state that is willing to prescribe Armour. Believe me it is well worth it to go out of your way to get Armour.

http://www.armourthyroid.com/

Print this out. Take it to your doctor. If your doctor poo-poos this, then fire your doctor and go to that doctor locator I gave you and find a doctor that will help you. I cannot stress enough how important it is to get treated right away. Good luck!

Q: I have a lot of symptoms of a slow thyroid, but every test I take comes out negative. What do I do next?
I have a family history of slow thyroids and, frankly, thyroids that quit. My metabolism is SLOW. I’ve had depression and a lot of other symptoms. My mom’s thyroid just gave out and they’ve put her on replacement thyroid hormone. She’s lost a ton of weight and she’s much happier.

I’ve taken every blood test that I know to ask for. They agree my thyroid is on the sluggish side, but that’s it. Should I see an endocrinologist? What do I do next?

A: See an endocrinologist and bring some knowledge with you. Find out your test scores, including your TSH. A TSH above 3.0 indicated hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), but most labs use an older standards and a TSH may need to be as high as 5.0 to be considered underactive.

http://www.aace.com/newsroom/press/2003/index.php?r=20030118

Until November 2002, doctors had relied on a normal TSH level ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 to diagnose and treat patients with a thyroid disorder who tested outside the boundaries of that range5 . Now AACE encourages doctors to consider treatment for patients who test outside the boundaries of a narrower margin based on a target TSH level of 0.3 to 3.04. AACE believes the new range will result in proper diagnosis for millions of Americans who suffer from a mild thyroid disorder, but have gone untreated until now.

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symptoms of thyroid problem

Categories: Thyroid Problem

Read and learn more about symptoms of thyroid problem. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: What are the symptoms of thyroid problem?
are any of these associated with it?

diaroea
nausea
dizzy
tremors
palpitations
headaches
hunger
depression
hair falling out (not in clumps but strands)
fatigue and sometimes insomnia

I’ve had these symptoms for coming upto 3 years and have can i point out i have a severe needle phobia which is being worked on by a therapist…which is the reason i haven’t had any tests done.

I also have had agoraphobia for 3 years.
thanks

A: It is possible that you have a hyper thyroid yes. I suggest asking your doctor for a blood test to put your mind at ease. I went to my doctor 5 years ago with all those symptoms and more. I was diagnosed with Graves Disease and stayed on PTU tablets for 3 years. 12 months ago I had radioactive idodine to kill off my thyroid which didnt work. 3 weeks ago I had a total Thyroidectomy. Best thing I ever did in my life :) . I now feel normal (despite the side effects which I am experiencing). If I were you I would go to the doctor soon for blood tests as if it is a thyroid problem you really need to do something about it before you end up like I did. It caused alot of panic attacks for me also, and I had never had before I was hyper. As for the needle phobia, Take a couple of panadol before you go, and take a book to read while they are taking blood. It helps to take you mind off it all. Let me know how you go :) Chin up

Q: Are my problems all symptoms of a thyroid problem?
Doctor had a blood test done today because irregular periods and fatigue. I also have acne that just started last few months, losing alot of hair, trouble losing weight, mouthful of canker sores, twitchy eye, blurry vision that comes and goes. Now I’m curious, is all this related? I’ve just been ignoring it, because everytime I go to a doctor for the canker sores they just say it’s stress.

A: to me i think you should take a muliti vitimains.eat healthy meals and yes stress will cause a lot of your problems.but is he checking your thyroids?because if your thyroid count is low that will make you gain weught. but if you are so call dieting it will also cause your problems too. you see if you don’t get the nutrirets your body needs it goes wild.so take vitimains,eat right,stay away from things that will stress you out.good luck.

Q: symptoms of thyroid problem but negative blood test?
Recently had tests for thyroid problems, runs in my family on both sides and have been really cold all the time, putting on weight really quicklyand suffering total energy crashes. Blood tests came back as negative and doctors reaction was to put me on diet pills ….! Do reasonable amount of exercise (netball & rugby) and eat ok so don’t think weight is the problem, anyone know something else that causes these things?
Am getting fed up with wearing jumpers and sleeping all the time!

A: You should have your cortisol, blood sugar and insulin levels checked also.

Q: what are signs or symptoms of a thyroid problem or disorder?
Hello, I have not had mine checked yet, but one of my doctors (for anxiety) told me to because I have anxiety and night sweats. I am in the process of finding a doctor to do blood work for me to get it checked. In the meantime though, can you tell me what other signs or symptoms are associated with thyroid?

Thanks

P.S.. I am 27 year old female, if that makes a difference.

A: hypothyroidism/Hashimotos disease:
fatigue
weight gain or inability to lose weight even when dieting
high (bad) cholesterol
low (good) cholesterol
high triglycerides
joint pain
light sensitivity
dry skin
depression
anxiety
arrhythmia’s
cold hands and feet
low blood pressure
fibromyalgia
tingling hands & feet
sleeping too much
heavy periods
infertility
cold intolerance
low body temperature

hyperthyroidism/Graves disease:
anxiety
heart palpitations
weight loss
bulging eyes
eye problems
aggression
trouble sleeping/inability to sleep
weight loss/inability to gain weight
fatigue
heat intolerance
elevated body temperature
high blood pressure
tacchycardia

Q: Is there any reason for having symptoms of a thyroid problem, but having normal blood levels?
I have a lot of the symptoms, but I got my blood tested and it came back normal. My mom had hyperthroidism and had her thyroid removed. Problems in this area are hereditary, but I cant figure out why I have all the symptoms and no reason for it…. Help me?

A: You probably have what is called “Subclinical Hypothyroidism”. Basically, with this condition, the pituitary gland, which is in charge of regulating the thyroid gland, produces extra amounts of TSH to stimulate the thyroid to maintain a normal circulating level of thyroid hormones. While with “Subclinical Hypothyroidism” you technically are not Hypothyroid (thyroid hormone levels are normal), your pituitary is working hard at keeping your thyroid hormone levels within the normal range. In a significant number of patients, the TSH levels must climb in order to continue to stimulate the thyroid gland. Eventually, over the course of months to years, the thyroid gland no longer responds. At this point, “Subclinical Hypothyroidism” turns into overt Hypothyroidism. With Subclinical Hypothyroidism you will have Hypothyroid symptoms. Some doctors refuse to treat Subclinical Hypothyroidism and wait until you become fully Hypothyroid. I think this is a huge mistake. Treating Subclinical Hypothyroidism early on not only helps the patient so they don’t feel horrible, but also lessens the extent of how bad the Hypothyroidism can get. I had a doctor who refused to treat my Subclinical Hypothyroidism and I got so bad that I couldn’t hold down a job and spent most of my time in bed. I searched for a new doctor and found one that was willing to treat my Subclinical Hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, going for so long without treatment caused other problems…I ended up with heart damage, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lost most of my hair for a while and when it grew back it turned completely gray (it wasn’t before) and many other bad things happened. So it’s important to get treated right away.

I suggest you find yourself a good “thyroid doctor” called an Endocrinologist and have a simple blood test including an antibody test (sometimes called an ANA test) to see if you have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (an auto-immune disease of the thyroid which often starts out as Subclinical Hypothyroidism). Here is a good Endocrinologist locator:

http://www.armourthyroid.com/con_phLocator.aspx

I highly recommend you get the book, “Living Well with Hypothyroidism” by Mary J. Shomon. It is an easy book to read and you will learn a lot. You may buy it cheap at Amazon.com for as little as $6.05 used

(http://www.amazon.com/Living-Well-Hypothyroidism-Doctor-Revised/dp/0060740957/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1249143075&sr=8-1)

or you can get it at a book store (if they don’t have it, have them order it for you).

Once you find a good doctor that is willing to treat you have him/her put you on Armour Thyroid (a type of medication for Hypothyroidism). I was first placed on Synthroid (Levothyroxine) and although it got my thyroid levels in the normal rage, I still had the hypo symptoms and felt awful. It wasn’t until I went on Armour Thyroid that I felt like my old self again. The difference is a hormone called T3. Synthroid doesn’t have T3 in it only T4. Many in the medical field think that Hypothyroid people only need T4 and that your body will convert T4 to T3, but many people’s bodies don’t convert T4 to T3 well and that’s why they still have hypo symptoms while on Synthroid. The human thyroid gland naturally produces hormones T1, T2, T3, T4, T5…etc. Synthroid is a synthetic hormone replacement with only T4. Armour Thyroid is a natural hormone replacement and it has all the hormones your thyroid naturally produces so it stands to reason that treating a disease as naturally as possible is best. Synthroid has a huge marketing campaign with medical schools and doctors’ offices and they try to tell everyone Armour Thyroid isn’t any good. Don’t believe that. Armour Thyroid has been around for over 100 years and is very reliable and is regularly tested and approved by the American Food and Drug Administration. Because of all the negative marketing from Synthroid about Armour, you may have a difficult time getting a doctor to prescribe Armour. However, if you go to the Armour Thyroid web site and use their doctor locator you should be able to find a doctor in your area and state that is willing to prescribe Armour. Believe me it is well worth it to go out of your way to get Armour.

http://www.armourthyroid.com/

Print this out. Take it to your doctor. If your doctor poo-poos this, then fire your doctor and go to that doctor locator I gave you and find a doctor that will help you. I cannot stress enough how important it is to get treated right away. Good luck!

Q: What would you say the chances of me are of having a thyroid problem with these symptoms?
1. My neck feels swollen outwards, but muscular and in the bone structure.
2. My Adam’s Apple is about 2x the size of the average male’s and I don’t have an extremely skinny neck.
3. Two small lumps (under my skin, feel like lymph notes) have formed under my chin and are always visible.
4. My lymph notes are ALWAYS swollen.
5. When bending my neck back it feels like I’m lifting weights and the strain is directly under my Adam’s Apple.
6. It’s hard for me to touch my chin to my chest.
7. It feels like I’m lifting a weight when I swallow and sometimes at the end of the day my neck will be sore (especially directly under my adam’s apple).
8. Half the time my adam’s apple and directly under it hurts.
9. Sometimes my adam’s apple will spasm and move violently up and down against my will.
10. Light pressure against my neck (even a hug) can make my adam’s apple and under it hurt for a long time.

Also, is the thyroid test a simple blood test? Could a naturepath doc help me?

A: Don’t walk, *run* to your doctor. Your lymph nodes should never be swollen for any length of time unless you have an infection or other illness, and when coupled with these other symptoms, I would absolutely put you in the hands of any doctor as quickly as possible. There’s more to a neck/throat than just the thyroid, but a blood test can indicate deficiencies easily, though sometimes a second test may be necessary. A doctor should also feel around and note unusual formations. You ought not let this go any longer and see for certain. Any doctor- just go.

Best of luck!!

Q: What are the first signs/symptoms of a thyroid problem?
I don’t feel well and my dad and 2 auntys have had their thyroids removed.

A: The “signs and symptoms” of a dysfunctional thyroid can be easily confused, and some patients will present no overt “symptoms” at all.

Since you have a family history of thyroid issues, I’m surprised your family practitioner hasn’t given you a proper blood test to check your TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone).
This is the only way to determine your thyroid function.

Make an appointment asap and ask to have the tests done.

Good Luck.

Q: Does anyone know what the symptoms of thyroid problems are?
My sister told me see was having blood work done because her doctor thinks her symptoms may be explained by a thyroid problem. What are some common symptoms? She says one of her symptoms is her hair falling out. I can’t find anything about that symptom as related to thyroid problems!

A: The thyroid gland, which is in your neck, sets the rate at which you produce energy from your body’s stores by the release of thyroid hormones.

Hyperthyroid
If you’re producing too much hormone, and the gland is overactive, you’re said to be hyperthyroid. You’ll have too much energy, lose weight, feel warm and may have symptoms such as palpitations.

There are many causes of an overactive thyroid and you may need blood tests and scans to find out what’s responsible.

The most common reason is when your body’s defences falsely recognise your own tissue as an invader and begin to attack it. This is called autoimmune disease and it stimulates the thyroid to produce more hormones.

If you have a cyst or growth in the thyroid, it may also produce too much hormone.

Hyperthyroidism symptoms may include:

weight loss
rapid heartbeat
tremor
excessive sweating
heat intolerance
anxiety
muscle weakness
goitre
irregular periods

Hypothyroid
If your thyroid is underactive – not producing enough hormone – you’ll have too little energy and will feel slow, tired and lethargic. You’ll become hypothyroid.

Again, there are many causes, but for some it seems to be part of the ageing process. Hypothyroidism is especially common in women after the menopause. Look for the following symptoms:

exhaustion, tiredness, sleep problems
difficulty concentrating or remembering
weight gain
dry hair, skin and nails
depression or anxiety
constipation
poor libido
breathlessness and swelling of feet
hoarseness
cold intolerance
face swelling and puffy eyes
in women, heavy periods

How many people are affected?
Hyperthyroidism affects up to one in 50 people and is ten times more common in women than in men. It can occur at any age but is most common between the ages of 20 and 50.

Hypothyroidism is ten times more common in women than in men and usually occurs over the age of 40.

What’s the treatment?
It’s difficult to prevent thyroid illness. Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone medication. Treatment of hyperthyroidism may involve medication to reduce the production of thyroid hormone, radioactive iodine therapy or a thyroidectomy (removal of part of the thyroid gland).

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in July 2006

Q: What are the symptoms of thyroid problems in dogs?
My Schnauzer is shedding quite a bit and he’s hyperactive. I’ve read that dogs with a thyroid problem can be lethargic or hyperactive but I’d like to hear from someone who has experience with this.

A: 90% of thyroid problems in dogs are caused by a hypoactive thyroid, meaning that the thyroid gland is under functioning. Symptoms that the owner usually notices is that the dog is usually overweight (and not just slightly), lethargic, exercise intolerance and usually has patchy hair or the hair coat isn’t as thick as it used to be. To diagnose this, it’s a very simple blood test and the condition is easily controlled by daily oral medication, but has to be monitored by more blood testing to find the right dosing of the medication. Easiest thing to do for your little guy is to just call your Vet for an exam and ask for some blood work! Best of luck.

Q: Are these symptoms of slight thyroid problem?? ?
Recently i realised i have been eating ALOT. i cant stop eating and never feel full. Or if i do, i usually start to feel hungry again half an hour later. And the amount that i eat is… um, more than what my parents eat add together, plus the fact that i’m a 15 year old girl, it just makes this entire thing super scary. (Recently, i eat like, in one day, 5 chocolate doughnuts, 2 bananas, 2 tubs of yogurt, 1 extra humongous beef burger with cheese and two thick slices of meat, 5 granola bars, and dinner and lunch that consists of main dishes and lots of rice, and i’ll feel like eating another 2 grapefruits. BUT I NEVER USED TO EAT THIS MUCH!!!!) It’s scaring me.

And recently i have really frequent defecations, like, right after i eat something. And my mensus didn’t really come. And my hair has been dropping so much i’m afraid i’ll turn bald. Like if i just run my fingers through my hair, a huge bunch of hair will fall off….

i checked online to see the symptoms of thyroid problems, but i dont have ALL the symptoms, so i’m just wondering if i do have some thyroid disease or something. Like, i don’t think i have a problem with sleeping, my neck isnt changing size, and my skin is the same as ever. But i’m quite surprised that my weight remained at around 50kg all these while. (i’m 164 kg, so that’s fine right?)

please tell me what’s wrong with me….!

and yeah, i realised these days i have really bad concentration.

A: Not to say this is what you have but check out the symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
Not all women with PCOS share the same symptoms. These are some of the symptoms of PCOS:

- infrequent menstrual periods, no menstrual periods, and/or irregular bleeding
- infertility (not able to get pregnant) because of not ovulating
- increased hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes—a condition called hirsutism (HER-suh-tiz-um)
- ovarian cysts
- acne, oily skin, or dandruff
- weight gain or obesity, usually carrying extra weight around the waist
- insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
- high cholesterol
- high blood pressure
- male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
- patches of thickened and dark brown or black skin on the neck, arms, breasts, or thighs
- skin tags, or tiny excess flaps of skin in the armpits or neck area
- pelvic pain
- anxiety or depression due to appearance and/or infertility
- sleep apnea—excessive snoring and times when breathing stops while asleep

Q: What are the symptoms of a thyroid problem. Is it just hair loss only or other signs?

A: I am one of these sufferers of a thyroid disorder, called; Hypothyroidism. The doctor took four years to correctly diagnose me!

Here are the symptoms for an over-active thyroid;

1: Putting on weight without eating any more, whilst having a healthy diet.

2: Feeling lethargic, no matter how much sleep you have had.

3: Mood swings.

4: Feeling cold.

5: Hair loss!

Untreated, a multi-nodular goitre can form in the thyroid, but the eyes do not become prominent as with the over-active thyroid condition.

The patient will feel more lethargic as the time goes by, and might be unable to have the strength to get out of bed.

—————————————————————–

If it is Hyperthyroidism, over-active thyroid;

1: Feeling hot even when the weather is cold.

2; Rushing about, not able to relax, tense.

3: Palpitations.

4: Feeling irritable all the time.

5: Unable to sleep.

If this condition is left untreated, the thyroid could swell, and so can the eyeballs, which is called; Goitre

A blood test can easily ascertain, which thyroid condition the patient has. Treatment is difficult to get the correct level of thyroid hormone needed in to regulate the body, but if you have a good specialist, called an; Endocrinologist it may take only 6 months to a year, depending on the severity of the case.

But, you will have to go back for regular three monthly blood tests to keep an eye on it. I found that if I had a weight gain, or managed to lose some weight, it affected the dosage I was on. So keep an eye on that too.

Donni-Jay

Q: are these symptoms of thyroid problems or something else?
recently ive been veryyy hungry and veryy thirsty all the time (therefore going to the bathroom often) and also for some reason, even though im eating a lot more…im loosing weight. when i had my period it was so light, basically nothing except for the first day. im tired all the time, taking naps constantly. i have an enlarged thyroid and they told me if i was having problems with my period i should see them again..but i dont know if this is a thyroid problem or something else. please help me!

A: Very much sounds like hyperthyroidism.

Q: Thyroid problems, symptoms the same as depression?
Hi again…I was talking with a lady and she had very similiar symptoms as me with my “Burn-out: Depression”. She said that her thyroid was ‘out of wack’. I have had my thyroid checked this year (about 1 month before I was diagnosed) and the blood work indicated that my thyroid count was normal. Is it possible that other blood work would indicate otherwise?
I have had previous problems with thyroid count and I was sent to a specialist and then the number was normal (without meds.). That was 3 weeks after the original blood work. How can the count be off (a crazy amount) one day and then normal the next? Is there a possibility that I am being treated for a wrong illness? Has anyone had thyroid problems in the past? I would really enjoy reading your answers. TY. Have a great weekend.

A: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause symptoms of depression and fatigue, which may be what you are experiencing.
If you think that this might be an issue for you, see a different doctor than the one you saw last time and get your levels checked again.
I have hypothyroidism and it is an easy thing to manage once you get it diagnosed.

Go here for a list of symptoms. Good luck with everything.

http://www.webmd.com/hw/thyroid_disorders/hw145669.asp?pagenumber=2

Q: what are some signs and symptoms of thyroid problems?
what are the symptoms of thyroid problems…basically,how do you know you have issues with you thyroid (male)..what happens to you…do you lose appaetite,hairloss/balding???etc…what happens?

A: Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. Symptoms would include; weight gain, difficulty losing weight, fatigue, constipation, depression, dry thinning hair, dry skin, low body temp, brain fog, decreased sex drive, muscle and joint aches

Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid. Symptoms may include; weight loss, diarrhea, anxiety, excessive sweating, headaches,

Q: what are all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem?
what are the long term effects if not treated?

A: Thyroid is a gland in the neck which produces a hormone thyroxine which basically increases the metabolic rate.So there may be two possibilities.
(1 ) You have less thyroxine. The symtoms will be.
You are sluggish.
You cannot stand cold.
You have a loss of appetite.
Your heart rate is low.
Your blood sugar will drop.
You will get fatter.
(2)You have more thyroxine. The symptoms will be opposite those of the above.
Goitre is a condition where your Thyroid swells up. Some goitres prouce less thyroxine. some produce more and some may even be malignant.

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thyroid gland problems

Categories: thyroid gland

Read and learn more about thyroid gland problems. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: thyroid gland problems….?urgent ! please ,only serious answers.?
after 3 months of so many problems and symptoms that made hell of my dayly life, all the blood results were almost perfect.
except, only one element for the thyroid gland (normal is from 1 to 5 , and mine was 9,8 ) …so i am waiting to see a specialist and get an ultrasound and check the tests all over again.
my symptoms are really terrible: from being anxious at times, variations of blood pressure, tachicardia at times,almost all the time chest pain and bronho spasms,tremor,redness of the skin that migrates from one spot to another,some problems with eyes,and many other stuff…

and one special thing : i am feeling sexual arousal as one of the symptoms as well .(and trust me ,its not feeling good to be “on the edge” almost all day ,for so many days. not pleasant at all).
but i am not sure that this particular change in libido can be really related to the thyroid . if you know for sure to tell me can that symptom can be related to hyperthyroid ,please let me know by your answer.
for now i do know that it is a thyroid case. (i am 29 by the way ,and i have quite of knowledge about medicine in general, but not about this particular question regarding the possibility of overcharged libido in thyroid. yeah, logically it can be ,because the hormones are in the game, but yet i haven’t found that that particular symptom can be related with thyroid) . just hope that it is not becaouse of some stupid ,uneducated people whould have hide the libido changes or sexual arousal as a symptom , out of being shy!!???
i am confused , couse i know it cannot be that only i feel that symptom and no one before me ! and again , if there is cases like mine , how comes that is not eay to find it among the other symptoms connected with thyroid.)
so, please, if u can get the information ,i’d be thatnful.
for everything else , i already know. however, i appreciate all your anwers .

A: This is the best I could find
HyperthyroidismFont SizeA A A Symptoms
You may have hyperthyroidism if you:

Feel nervous, moody, weak, or tired.
Have hand tremors; have a fast or irregular heartbeat; or have trouble breathing, even when you are resting.
Sweat a lot, and have warm, red skin that may be itchy.
Have frequent and sometimes loose bowel movements.
Have fine, soft hair that is falling out.
Lose weight even though you are eating normally or more than usual.
In addition, some women have irregular menstrual cycles or stop having periods altogether, and some men may develop enlarged breasts.

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are not the same for everyone. Your symptoms will depend on how much hormone your thyroid gland is making, how long you have had the condition, and your age. If you are older, it’s easy to mistakenly dismiss your symptoms as normal signs of aging.

Specific symptoms of Graves’ disease
People with Graves’ disease often have additional symptoms, including:

Goiter, which is an enlarged, painless, soft thyroid.
Thickened nails that lift off the nail beds.
Myxedema, which is lumpy, reddish, thick skin on the front of the shins and sometimes on top of the feet.
Clubbing (fingers with wide tips).
Graves’ ophthalmopathy, which causes bulging, reddened eyes, among other symptoms.
Complications
Graves’ ophthalmopathy is a frequent complication of hyperthyroidism. It can develop before, after, or at the same time as your symptoms of hyperthyroidism. People with Graves’ ophthalmopathy develop eye problems, including bulging, reddened eyes, sensitivity to light, and blurring or double vision. People who smoke are more likely to develop Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

If you have Graves’ ophthalmopathy, it may temporarily get worse if you have radioactive iodine treatment. On the other hand, it may get better if you take antithyroid medication.

If you do not treat your hyperthyroidism, you may:

Lose weight because your body’s metabolism is faster.
Have heart problems such as rapid heart rate, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.
Have trouble replacing calcium and other minerals in your bones, which can lead to osteoporosis.
In rare cases, hyperthyroidism can cause a life-threatening condition called thyroid storm, which develops when the thyroid gland releases large amounts of thyroid hormones in a short period of time. Thyroid storm usually happens after you have had a serious infection or you have had a lot of stress in your life.

Q: Anyone had problems with their thyroid gland? what were your symptoms?
I went to the doctor and told her that my neck sometimes got a bit swollen. She checked it out and at first glance she said I might have a thyroid problem and possibly a goiter. I took the blood test and everything came back normal. I was wondering what were some of the symptoms of someone who has had it. Could it be that there is something wrong but not noticable yet? Some of the things that I have been experiencing is persistant nausea, breathing problem which is not caused by asthma, and some more than usual hair loss. Is this something that could be related? Any information would help. Thanks.

A: Yes, the symptoms you describe sound like a thyroid problem. There are two types of thyroid problems: hyperthryoidism (when your thyroid gland is overactive–producing too much thyroid hormones) and hypothyroidism (when your thyroid gland is underactive). Both have symptoms of goiter. Goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland that can interfere with swallowing, breathing and may cause swelling in the neck. More oftenly, it is associated with hyperthyroidism. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: weight loss, increased anxiety, increased heart rate, increased appetite, fatigue, hair loss, nausea/vomiting, and many others, including menstrual irregularities.

Hyperthyroidism is very common in young women, and can be easily treated. According to the symptoms you describe, it sounds like you may have hyperthyroidism. I would go see a different doctor (possibly an endocrinologist) who can do a more thorough test on you to see if indeed you have hyperthyroidism. Lab tests can be normal and you can still have a thyroid problem. That’s why it’s better to see someone who specializes in it. Good luck!

Q: what kinds of problems can occur when the thyroid gland doesn’t work properly?
Both my mom and nana have problems and I got a txt to my phone saying that if you notice an increase in hair lose to get your thyroid checked. My hair has been falling out like there’s no tomorrow. Please, could you give my any info on possible thyroid problems or anything on the thyroid like what it does and what hormones it sends out and what those hormones do? Thanks in advance

A: The thyroid is an endocrine gland which sits in front of your larynx in your throat. It secretes two different hormones, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) which are responsible for regulating your body’s metabolism and controlling how quickly reactions in your body happen. They are the nerve centre you could say. It’s from these hormones that your body gets the messages to burn energy and regulate your metabolism. So the thyroid, as small as it is, is responsible for how efficiently your body burns fat, for how much you weigh and for how much you sleep.

So when your thyroid stops functioning well, your metabolism slows down, the weight gain starts and the other symptoms of hypothyroidism start to reveal themselves.The symtoms are pretty frustrating:
weight gain
hair loss
dry skin
aching limbs
cold hands and feet
memory fogginess
depression
infertility

If your mum and nana both have it then there is a higher chance that you too will inherit it so you should see your doctor for a blood test if the symptoms continue and you can get some meds to help you feel OK again.

Q: thyroid gland…..?
i have been told by my GP that i might have a problem with my thyroid gland (i am goin for more tests at the end of the month), but 2 days ago i woke up with a swelling around the bottom of my neck, it goes from 1 side to the other, and it hasnt seemed to have got smaller.

my question is for people who have, or no of this thyroid problem, if you think this could have anything to do with my gland, i think i have got a problem with it because i am tired all the time and lathargic but i would just like some information about this swelling of my neck.

thank you in advance.

A: I have hypothyroidism. (Underactive thyroid). I take medicine every day for this. What you are explaining is called a goiter. Although I have never had a goiter, I have had every single symptom (except the weight gain). I completely understand the fatigue. Like someone hit you with their car? If it hasn’t gotten that bad yet, believe me, it will. Your goiter can mean you either have hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid), hypo (too little thyroid), or it can possibly mean your thyroid gland is working fine and something else is causing the goiter. Since you are really tired, I am thinking you have hypothyroidism. You must ask yourself if you are more cold than everyone, (feeling chilled to the bone?), have trouble waking in the morning? dry skin? dry hair? hair loss? changes in hair? depression? heavy feeling in legs? poor circulation? cold extremities? Were your symptoms slow and almost unnoticeable, then became quite a problem very fast? Any unexplained weight gain or problems losing weight? If you are female (sorry, I can’t see your name or profile right now), any heavy periods or your symptoms seem much worse during that time of the month? If your thyroid gland isn’t working properly, you need the care of a doctor now. It will only get worse as time goes by. If you are diagnosed with this and want to talk, feel free to email me.

Q: Can speech problems be associated with the thyroid gland?
My son has apraxia of speech &I was wondering if it could be linked with thyroid?

A: http://www.lycos.com/info/hypothyroidism–infants.html

Infants with hypothyroidism are usually identified through testing after birth. This is important, because if hypothyroidism is not corrected, a child could have mental slowness or retardation problems and not grow to a normal height.

Q: Does your thyroid gland have to be swollen for you to have a thyroid problem?
I have all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem except a swollen thyroid gland. So does it sound like I have a thyroid problem or does it sound like a different problem?

A: No, it does NOT have to be swollen and you should NOT be diagnosed on a thyroid blood panel only! Especially if the doc only blood tests for TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If he/she does then run do not walk from their office. TSH is your body’s thermostat which is secreted by your Pituitary Gland.

I learned the hard way from experience and now due to doctor’s misconceptions I had to have my thyroid surgically removed. I missed thyroid cancer by a hair width. I will be taking 2 pills 3 times per day for the rest of my life because of doctors solely relying on blood tests. I had a sub-clinical thyroid condition (meaning blood tests within the normal to low normal range) which later resulted in a autoimmune disease thyroid condition. I should have been diagnosed based on symptoms, but it takes a doc with a lot of knowledge to think outside the 4-corners of their medical textbook and guts too. My symptoms began 15 years ago and it took 15 years to hit rock bottom for my disease to surface on blood tests but then it became an autoimmune disease and was TOO LATE. Autoimmune disease is where your immune system turns against you and it begins to attack your body.

Also, I found that specialists such as Endocrinologists were the least informed. I found that they were quick to push mental health drugs treating only the symptoms and not getting to the root of the real problem. Go to the library and SELF-EDUCATE, read all books by patient advocate Mary J. Shomon, Doctors Ridha Ahrem and Steven F. Hotze. Once you learn just how important the thyroid is to your body’s well being and how it functions, then you will be able to connect the dots. You know your body better than anyone.

If you can remember one key important fact which is that some/most doctors medicate using the T-4 hormone (a thyroid pro-hormone) only, but a patient’s problem could lie with the assimilation of the T-3 hormone (the thyroids active hormone). After T-4 enters cells it must be converted into T-3 which is the active active form of thyroid hormone (active OUTSIDE of your blood stream) it is what effects your mental health (depression), memory, fatigue, body temperature, muscle strength, cholesterol level, weight, hair, skin, nails, etc. A complete hormone panel is key too (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol,melatonin). I prefer hormone testing using saliva over blood, which unfortunately, the majority of insurance plans do not cover. I feel it is money well spent.

Good Luck and Be Well.

Q: Are There Any Warning Signs Of Thyroid Problems That Don’t Require A Blood Test?
My mom has had thyroid problems (it eventually had to be removed), and I would like to recognize any problems before they get too advanced, preferably without having to get a blood test every few months for it.

I know the thyroid gland regulates like temperature and mood, how could I isolate any problems caused by my thyroid?

A: Symptoms can vary:
For hypothyroid: Fatigue; depression; hair loss; dry skin; paleness; lowered temperature; sensitivity; sluggishness; constipation; hoarse voice; puffy face; unexplained weight gain; heavier than normal menstruation; swelling in extremities; joint & muscle pain & stiffness; etc.

For Hyperthyroid: Goiter (a bulge on side of neck when thyroid is swollen); weight loss even while eating normally; anxiety; jitteryness; increased appetite; rapid heartbeat; difficulty sleeping; fatigue; sweating; sensitivity to heat; frequent bowel movements; etc.

Symptoms often first appear as something else.

Google: mayo clinic>>diseases>>hypothyroidism
>>hyperthyroidism

You probably only need a blood test 2X/year.

Good luck

Q: can taking amphetamines cause problems with your thyroid gland?

A: Not unless you already have a thyroid problem. But why did you put this question under the Cancer health conditions category?

Take care!
Kali :-)
Nurse Practitioner

Q: can a injured thyroid gland cause memory problems?

A: I think it’s mostly emotional control – but I could be wrong. Try Google, look up thyroid. Good luck.

Q: a thyroid gland problem?
Hiya folks

For the last while i have been having a few problems with the thyroid gland. I have a low thyroid gland and i have been taking extrolin. Now the thing is i have had a few fainting spells just mainly at home but i am really scared to go out juust in case if it happens when i am out and about.

I have seen my GP about this and she more or less said take it easy. but i am concerned that i might faint outside what should i do
debs my GP wasnt helpful and she did knock my confidence in the health system quite a lot.

A: If you thyroid levels have been checked recently proving your levothyroxine replacement is appropriate, then your fainting should not be linked with your thyroid problem.

Lol, I am afraid GPs saying ‘Take it easy’ to patients belongs in a 1920s novel rather than modern practice. Either you have an identifiable medical condition or you don’t! After investigation you should either be given appropriate management for your condition, or reassured following exclusion, that you don’t have a significant medical issue.

Find a GP who has at least entered the 21st century.

Q: Are there any people out there ever had problems with their “Thyroid” gland?
I have to see a consultant soon as I have a small “nodule” below windpipe which is quite painful at the moment.

A: Apparently about one third of Americans has some sort of thyroid problem. I have Papillary Thyroid Cancer. Check Mary J. Shomon’s thyroid website and books. (My cancer was all over in there and never hurt.) Don’t worry now, get informed!!!

About.com thyroid disease

Q: How problems relating to the thyroid gland effect? ?

A: It can leas to cancer as well and this has happened to one of my relatives recently.She used to skip the prescribed medicine frequently.I am not a doctor I am just sharing with you as to what the doctor had said.

Q: I recently underwent an ultra-sound of my thyroid gland and it was quite painful. Is this normal?
The ultra sound was done on my neck. The center and the right side was more painful than my left side. Is this a symptom of thyroid problems?

A: Hi Meyling M, Good luck with your thyroid. First thing is, I assume you were either having some issues – or possibly had a check up and your doctor felt your thyroid may be enlarged in order for him/her to order an ultrasound. If its enlarged it may be tender.

My younger sister had thyroid cancer so I have to have my thyroid ultra sounded yearly. I have never experienced true ‘pain’ but it can definitely be uncomfortable and unpleasant. I think sometimes the tech really needs to push on areas to get a clear reading.

Did they do some blood tests as well? My thyroid is abnormally shaped and has cysts on it but because it is functioning properly (normal blood tests) they just continue to watch it. If you DO have a problem- please stay on top of it. It is AMAZING how much the thyroid has a hand in!

If it’s something serious (like cancer-God forbid) they simply remove it and give you radiation (I’m sure all patients are different). If you have it removed you have to stay on medication for your life and it takes some time to adjust but thyroid cancer is very rarely life threatening (so they tell me). If you end up having problems, and want someone to talk to that has first hand experience- let me know and I can get you in touch with my sister. She’s very knowledgeable (and sweet) First star I see tonight I will wish on that yours is normal. Take care!

Q: Has anyone’s dog ever experienced thyroid problems?
Canines, as well as people have a thyroid gland. When a dog’s thyroid is underactive it is referred to as “Hypothyroidism.”

If you have been thru this with your pet, I am interested in knowing what sorts of symptoms your dog had and how the problem was resolved.

A: I had an Italian Greyhound with this.
Bad coat/hair loss, eye problems, loss of energy…………..a pill a day and the problem was taken care of.
Relatively cheap and she lived another 8 years and passed with unrelated condition at age 15.

Q: A thyroid gland problem can anybody help?
I had my thyroid hormones checked.
TSH and T4 results are in normal parameters while my T3 result is below normal(low).
What does it mean?
Does it mean I have hypothyroid or hyperthyroid?
I’d be very glad if you could help.Thanks…

A: Do you happen to know what the TSH was? If it’s over 2.0 with a low T3 then you are hypothyroid. Make sure if you go thyroid medication that it’s a T4/T3 med. Most thyroid meds are only T4.

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thyroid diseases

Categories: thyroid disease

Read and learn more about thyroid diseases. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Thyroid Diseases?
Management of Goitres

A: Have you had any testing done? Are your levels high or low, hyper or hypoactive? Any symptoms of thyroid disease? Dry skin, insomnia, heart palpitations, dizziness, anxiety, depression, weight gain/loss, the list goes on and on. Is there a family history of thyroid disease? Managing goiters isn’t too difficult, there are some simple and not so simple tests that need to be done. Depending on the results of some of the tests below.

For instance, they usually start with a simple ultrasound, then a thyroid scan with radioactive isotopes. This will determine if the goiters are hot (working) or cold (not working). Generally if they are (hot), your thyroid levels may be elevated, determining that your thyroid is producing too much. If this is just the beginning, they could be borderline and your physician may just watch things for a while. If they are too elevated your physician may recommend having dose of Radioactive Iodine to shrink the goiters and reduce over activity, in some cases your thyroid levels will go back to normal. However, this may also lead to hypothyroidism at which time you will be placed on thyroid replacement therapy. But untreated hyperthyroidism can be very bad health wise (poor calcium absorbtion is just one effect) so better to be on replacement therapy.

Now if you have a scan and the goiters are cold, they are not functioning which can mean a number of things. They will have to do a fine needle biopsy. Not a big deal. If they are not functioning in most cases they need to be removed. It does not mean that if they are not functioning that you have cancer. This test will determine if in fact they are benign or malignate. If surgical intervention is required, they may be able to remove the just the part that is effected and hopefully your thyroid will resume normal function. In most cases they will try to leave a portion of the thyroid intact. If they find that your entire gland has to be removed, then after surgery you will be put on thyroid replacement therapy.

Hope you fine this information helpful. By the way, I am also a patient, I have multi-nodular goiters, July 2006 I just had the treatment with Radioactive Iodine and so far my thyroid is producing normally without any further intervention.
I am also a nurse. Good Luck!

Q: Are certain thyroid diseases heredity? Could it be passed down from mother to daughter if the mother has it?
Take a mother and daughter for example. The mother has some thyroid disease (I do not know what it is exactly, maybe the one where the thyroid is overworking) but the father does not have any disease. The daughter is still young, and so it probably is likely the disease won’t appear until she ages. Please name which diseases are heredity or if none of them at all are. Like if it just by chance its your body malfunctioning or what.

The mother has low hemoglobin, hematocrit, and iron, but has high TSH (high sensitivity in the thyroid I think?), and cholesterol.

Thanks. Need this for both educational reasons and possible reality situations.

A: from what i was told by an endo i saw from thyroid issues it can be passed on and occur younger and younger in each gereration….
my grandmother was hyper…diagnosed later in life
i was diag. hypo in my 30’s
my daughter was diag hypo at 9

ck out www.about.com and go to the thyroid section under health to get some great info about this…..

Q: What are some treatments for Thyroid diseases?
I’m doing a group project on Tyriods and we’re having a hard time finding information on treatments. They don’t have to be complex, just to give some ideas.

A: here check out webmd.
on the left side there are bullet points and several of them have to to with treatments.

here is the link for hyperthyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperthyroidism-topic-overview

and here is the link for hypothyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hypothyroidism-topic-overview

hope this helps you out.

Q: i would like to know if there is someone here specialized in throat ( Thyroid) diseases?
i have a problem with my thyroid, Hypothyroidism (Under-Active Thyroid)
and i would like to know what fruits and veg i should eat to improve its function and have a much higher metabolism. what should i avoid in my diet too. i don’t like the idea of pills, i would rather do it the natural way. Many Thanks.

A: Thyroid problems can very very tricky. You should speak with an Endocrinologist.

Q: Does a Complete Blood Count test for Thyroid diseases?
Just wondering if the basic complete blood count test checks for hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism?

Thank you.

A: CBC includes white cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Thyroid disease is tested with TFTs (thyroid function tests) which typically include TSH (the initial test sent) which if it is abnormal then T3 and T4 are sent.

Q: What are 12 diseases/conditions in the endocrine gland that involve the thyroid?
What are 12 conditions and or diseases that happen in the thyroid gland that is related with the endocrine?

A: Thyroid cancer

Q: why thyroid diseases are more common in women than in men?

A: Probably because our hormones change more frequently. Many woman have thyroid episodes a few months after the birth of a baby. I know I did.

Q: positive and negative feed back of thyroid gland diseases?
im writing report right now.
please help me.
i checked wiki already.
anything you know about thyroid gland disease please.
thanks a lot n_n

A: All types of hyperthyroidism are due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, but the condition can occur in several ways: In Graves’ disease, the release of excess hormones is triggered by an autoimmune disorder. For some unknown reason, the body attacks the thyroid, causing it to spill out too much hormone. At other times, nodules called toxic adenomas develop in the thyroid gland and begin to secrete thyroid hormones, upsetting the body’s chemical balance; some goiters may contain several of these nodules. In subacute thyroiditis, inflammation of the thyroid causes the gland to “leak” excess hormones, resulting in temporary hyperthyroidism that generally lasts a few weeks but may persist for months. Although rare, hyperthyroidism can also develop from pituitary gland malfunctions or from cancerous growths in the thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism, by contrast, stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. Since your body’s energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels. A common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones.

Hypothyroidism can also result when the thyroid gland has been surgically removed or chemically destroyed as treatment for hyperthyroidism. If you are exposed to excessive amounts of iodide — perhaps from a hidden source such as cold and sinus medicines, the heart medicine amiodarone or from certain contrast dyes given before some x-rays — you may be at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism, especially if you have had thyroid problems in the past. The drug lithium has also been linked as a cause of hypothyroidism. Untreated for long periods of time, hypothyroidism can bring on a myxedema coma, a rare but potentially fatal condition that requires immediate hormone injections.

Hypothyroidism poses a special danger to newborns and infants. A lack of thyroid hormones in the system at an early age can lead to the development of cretinism (mental retardation) and dwarfism (stunted growth). Most infants now have their thyroid levels checked routinely soon after birth. If they are hypothyroid, treatment begins immediately. In infants, as in adults, hypothyroidism can be due to a pituitary disorder, a defective thyroid, or lack of the gland entirely. A hypothyroid infant is unusually inactive and quiet, has a poor appetite and sleeps for excessively long periods of time.

Cancer of the thyroid gland is quite rare and occurs in less than 10% of thyroid nodules. You might have one or more thyroid nodules for several years before they are determined to be cancerous. People who have received radiation treatment to the head and neck earlier in life, possibly as a remedy for acne, tend to have a higher-than-normal propensity for thyroid cancer.

Q: Positive and negative feed back of thyroid gland diseases?
im writing report now.
please help
ANYTHING about thyroid gland diseases
* i checked wiki already… anything else?

A: The thyroid gland is a soft tissue gland and absorbs a lot of things that can effect it’s performance. A good example of this is the heavy metal aluminum. There is an estimated 13 million Americans suffering from hypothyroid (low thyroid function) condition that do not know they have the problem.

Much of the problem is associated with eating SOY products and peanuts found in peanut butter. Soy is being put in so many foods made in America today and is masked by naming it things like “textured vegetable protein” that is actually a refined soy food. Also soybean oil is being used in many things like salad dressings, cooking oils, etc., etc. It is even being used to make cheese cheaper by pizza companies like Pizza Hut, etc. Soy is a goitrogen and this inhibits mineral absorption, especially iron (over 50%). This isi why so many vegetarians are anemic. Soy slows the thyroid function down and can be found in the literature of drug companies that make thyroid products like Synthroid telling people to not eat soy because it counteracts the effectiveness of the drugs.

The rise of industrialization, corporate farming, and mass production of food has drastically changed our food supply from what our ancestors ate. Many studies show the detrimental effects of refined sugars and grains on our health. These foods are very taxing on the thyroid gland, and we consume them in large quantities.

Environmental stress such as chemical pollutants, pesticides, mercury, and fluoride are also tough on the thyroid. Fluoride widely used toothpaste and water treatment inhibits the functioning of the thyroid gland. Additionally, mercury will diminish thyroid function because it displaces the trace mineral selenium, and selenium is involved in conversion of thyroid hormones T4 to T3.

The food you eat, the environment we live in, and chemicals being added to the water supply and food can greatly affect the thyroid functions. It’s no wonder more and more Americans are suffering from thyroid problems.

Additionally, the solution doctors present is to take the easy way out and treat the symptoms by giving drugs to people like Synthroid rather than treat the cause. The problem is that the Synthroid drug basically kills the thyroid function and you become dependent upon the drug for the rest of your life.

A lot of thyroid problems could be solved by eliminating fluoride, mercury, aluminum, and other heavy metals from the diet and environment. Also, by eliminating all SOY products from your diet, you can greatly increase the health of your thyroid and in many cases restore the gland’s normal functions.

Another good food to eat for the thyroid is coconut oil. It contains a lot of lauric acid that is very good for the thyroid.

good luck to you

Q: What is thyroid disease in childen around one year to two years old?
This one year old’s soft spot has not healed over and he has some dry skin problems and a small loss of weight. This is some signs of thyroid disease. Hopefully it will turn out to be just a coincidence.

A: I would assume this child has been tested for thyroid disease. In the US, mandatory thyroid testing of infants has taken place since 1976. If this child has not been tested, then get him to a doctor as soon as possible. He may have congenital hypothyroidism. Even if he had been tested, it may be a good idea to test again. Hypothyroidism in a child can be devastating.

Congenital hypothyroidism is a disorder that affects infants at birth, and occurs in about 1 in 4000 live-born babies. It is characterised by the loss of thyroid function, due to the thyroid gland failing to develop normally. In some cases, the gland is totally absent. About 10 per cent of cases are caused by an enzyme defect leading to deficient hormone production, iodine deficiency and a brain pituitary gland abnormality. If the diagnosis is delayed, and immediate treatment is not given, congenital hypothyroidism can lead to growth and developmental defects, and severe mental retardation (cretinism).

Fortunately, routine testing for thyroid function in newborns has been mandatory since 1976. Within the first week of life, a heelprick blood sample is taken to assess an infant’s thyroid hormone level. If any abnormality is found, a repeat blood sample is taken. If this confirms congenital hypothyroidism, the infant is immediately given thyroid hormone replacement therapy (T4 — thyroxine). Normal growth and development should then continue, with no adverse effects on the child’s mental capacity.

Before newborn thyroid screening began, this condition was easily missed. Even within a few days, subtle symptoms would emerge, such as poor feeding, constipation, low body temperature, cool skin, slow pulse, prolonged jaundice, increased sleepiness, and decreased crying. After a few weeks, other physical signs would become more noticeable, such as poor growth and development, dry skin and hair, poor muscle tone, slow tendon reflexes, hoarse crying, enlarged tongue, umbilical hernia, and puffiness or swelling. By this time, there would already have been some devastating consequences. Treatment with thyroid hormone replacement would have resolved most of the physical symptoms, but the child would more than likely have had permanent brain damage.

Q: What is the difference in hypothyroidism and thyroid disease?
I have hypothyroidism and want to take some sinus medication. It says don’t take if you have thyroid disease.

A: It sounds like hypothyroidism is classified as thyroid disease. I wouldn’t take that medicine!

Q: Why is thyroid disease called the butterfly effect?
I have hypothyroidism, and i was wondering why thyroid disease is called the butterfly effect?

A: It actually has a double meaning. The thyroid gland is shaped like a “butterfly”, but also regulates so many other parts of the body that it can cause a “ripple” effect if not functioning properly.

The “butterfly effect”, or “chaos theory” states that, essentially, a butterfly flapping its wings on the other side of the world can cause a breeze that eventually will result in a tornado over here.

Basically something seemingly insignificant can have major consequences to something else that appears unrelated. So a diseased thyroid can result in hair loss, for instance, although hair seems unrleated to the thyroid.

Q: Why does allergy medicine say consult a doctor before use if you have thyroid disease?
I’ve been looking at allergy medications and most of them say consult a doctor before use if you have thyroid disease. I left a message with my doctor, but what would be the side-effects of someone taking allergy medicine if they had thyroid disease?

A: The otc medications can affect your heart rate, blood pressure, etc things that are already being controlled by another medication. My doctor told me DO NOT take it, but I also had thyroid cancer. They did however prescribe me Singular. If you are having serious issues with your allergies i suggest you also speak to your doctor about an allergy prescription

Q: Why does it say to consult a doctor if you have thyroid disease?
On a lot of antihistamine and sinus medications it says to consult your doctor if you have thyroid disease. What is the reason for this? I have hypothyroid and a bad cold so I need to take something so I can sleep. I know this is a question I should ask my doctor (and I intend to when I see her on Monday) but is it dangerous for me to take sinus medication?

A: I have hypothyroidism also. If you’re on medication, certain meds can counter-act with the meds your on. Call a pharmacist and ask them. Tell them what you’re on and tell them the med you want to take and they’ll tell you if its safe or not. Im on synthroid and have never had a problem with being able to take any sinus meds. To ease your mind and make sure, just call the pharmacy, they will gladly help you with anything you need to know! Good luck! Hope ya feel better soon! :)

Q: How do I get my horse to gain weight if he has a thyroid disease?
My horse has a thyroid disease. It is the kind that makes him loose. If if were to up his food, not by much, but still up it, would it hurt his thyroid problem. He is on Strategy right now and I dont know if I should add a weight gain supplement or not.

A: That’s hypothyroidism. You should call your vet and ask what you should do because the endocrine system is a delicate thing to mess with and the thyroid gland is a very large part of it.

0 comments

thyroid cancer nodules

Categories: Thyroid Cancer

Read and learn more about thyroid cancer nodules. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Does calcification in thyroid nodules mean you have cancer?
Ok so I had a thyroid biopsy done because there were multiple nodules found in my thyroid. I was told they are about 2 cm, (the 2 largest ones) The tech and the doctor that was performing the biopsy they said that I had calcification in the nodules, from what I saw the calcification was a little less than half the size of the actual nodule. Now does this indicate thyroid cancer?

A: Actually, calcified nodules of the thyroid account for only about 5% or so of thyroid cancers in general.

What needs to be done at this point is have the pathologist take a look at them to be sure.

A thyroid uptake scan is usually done BEFORE any biopsy would be done — typically looking for what are termed “cold nodules.” These are suspicious for cancer.

Best of luck to you!

Q: Do thyroid nodules that grow mean cancer? ?
I just had a FNA that came back as “moderately cellular smears without colloid suspicious for follicular neoplasm”. The doctor said I could get half my thyroid removed (the nodule is solid and measurement is 2.6cm x 1.6cm x1.6cm or every six months get an ultrasound to see if it grows. Will growth of this signify cancer? Apparantly, there is a 20% chance that this is cancer, but two doctors doubt it is. Thank you so much!

A: you have been given pretty solid information. “follicular neoplasm” of the thyroid is cancerous in 10 to 20 percent of cases, depending on which studies you read. Unfortunately, to tell the difference between cancerous and benign follicular neoplasms a pathologist needs to examine the entire capsule of the lesion (the layer of tissue on the outside of the mass) and this can only be done with surgical removal. Watching a neoplasm for growth is considered reasonable because of the 80-90% chance that it isn’t cancerous and the fact that even if it is cancerous thyroid cancer is typically not rapidly aggressive. if it does grow on repeat exam that is more worrisome for, but not a guarantee of, cancer. Ultimately you have to decide which you are more comfortable with, having surgery but knowing for sure what it is, or not having surgery and having some doubt. Discuss the risks and alternatives with your surgeon fully before you decide what to do.

Q: Thyroid cancer or just “nodules”?
I have 2 lumps (I guess its my thyroid nodule or something) on each side of my neck. I have had these for at least 3 years. I went to a my Dr. he felt it and said it was nothing. I don’t know though because I have those lumps, pain in my neck (sometimes on my right side of the neck, but mostly on my right) and pain in my ears sometimes. It’s not constant though. He didn’t even want to do any tests or anything, he took my blood to check my levels of stuff and said everything was fine… It’s just been really bothering me.

A: If you’re not satisfied with your current MD you can always ask for a referral right? Maybe he’s not worried because the nodules haven’t shown signs of being malignant( grown larger and are mobile)? Ask for a fine needle biopsy to be sure.

Q: Are thyroid nodules less or more likely to be cancerous when one has been taking Synthroid for 20 years?
Female. Age 62. Thyroid stopped functioning 20+ years ago. Now I have 3 nodules (2 solid, per ultrasound) and elevated Thyroglobulin. Hoarse voice. Cannot find any reference to incidence of thyroid cancer in people who have been on synthetic hormones for years.

A: Taking thyroid supplementation for hypothyroidism, whether synthetic or not, does not raise your chances of developing thyroid cancer. The nodules were a coincidence and not caused by the thyroid hormone supplementation. If you had not had the supplementation you would not have lived this past 20 years or if you did you would have been very miserable with symptoms. I’ve been on thyroid supplementation for much longer than twenty years.

Here is an ACS web page discussing the few real risk factors for thyroid cancer.

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_2X_What_are_the_risk_factors_for_thyroid_cancer_43.asp

Q: Thyroid and cancer? Nodules?
I’m 16. And a year ago I was diagnosed with hashimotos hypothyroidsm. In may my levels stabled out. But I had hyper and hypo symptoms. If I miss one day of meds I feel off. Latley I’ve been having trouble swalloing. And I feel as if flem is stuck in my throat. So my endocrin decided I should get an ultrasound to check out the nodules. I had it on Monday and no results. I have parts of my skin that won’t tan. And no one else in my family has had the diease. Could It be cancerous?

A: I had thyroid cancer and I also feel off if I skip even one dose of my medications. (I don’t think this is due to the cancer since I didn’t start my medications until it was gone/treatment was over, it’s just the way I react to the medicine…so I think that could be what’s happening with you.) I CANNOT go off my thyroid medications or I have a lot of skin, emotional, and other problems. I also feel the phlegm in my throat thing, I think because if I go off my thryoid medications I have sinus problems as well and I’m not sure if my body ever caught up. Maybe you could ask for a mucus thinner, or drink something hot when you start to feel that? If the ultrasound didn’t get any results, maybe you should talk to your doctor about having a test where they look down your throat with a camera and can actually see your thyroid. I had this done for speech issues and that’s actually how they found my thyroid cancer. But mine also showed up on an ultrasound, so if nothing was there and your doctor isn’t worried you probably don’t have anything to worry about.

Q: Do growing thyroid nodules equal cancer?
I have a thyroid nodule that tested as benign about 4-5 months ago. At that time, the sonogram showed it was about 3.9 cm. Just the other day, I saw the endocrinologist the other day and she thinks it has grown about 1 cm.
The endocrinologist said she’s thinks it has grown about 1 cm but I go for an ultrasound today to confirm. If it has grown, I need another biopsy. I am having slight difficulty swallowing and discomfort. She also said my TSH levels are in the lower range of normal so suppressing it’s growth is not an option.

A: Not necessarily. Fast growing nodules could be a sign of cancer, but in most cases, that is not so. A single nodule is more likely to be cancer than multiple nodules, larger nodules (over 5 cm. or -2 inches) are more likely to be cancerous than small ones (however, I’ve been told by my endocrine surgeon anything over 2-2.5 cm is very suspicious). What has your endocrinologist suggested? Are you trying to suppress your TSH to see if it hinders further growth? Are you experiencing discomfort or trouble swallowing? It might be a good idea to seek a surgeon to see what they suggest (cancer or not) due to the sheer size. I wish you the best! I’m sure you’ll be fine!!

Edit: You could always get a second opinion if the results today aren’t what you want (i.e. do nothing).

Q: I have a calcified thyroid nodule.Can it be thyroid cancer?
I am 29 yrs old and 35 weeks pregnant with my 2nd baby.
Last week we noticed a big lump on the left side of my neck.My OBG said it was a thyroid nodule.
Tests for thyroid hormone came normal.
The thyroid nodule is quite big about 4.3 cm.
They did an ultrasound and said they saw a lump with a lot of calcification and blood supply to it.
They also did FNA biopsy and took samples from both my nodules since the other one also had a small nodule.

What are the chances that it will be a thyroid cancer?
Also what does the calcification with blood supply indicate?
If my nodule is that big,is there a chance that it may have spread?
If it is not cancer,do calcified nodules or thyroid glands still need to be removed?

I am still waiting for my biopsy results and hoping for the best.
I will discuss all this in detail with my doctor but your answers also will be highly appreciated.

A: The first thing you need to do, is relax.
Understand that IF it is cancer that the survival rate for thyroid cancer is high. Thyroid cancer is slow growing. The chances of it being spread to other areas of the body or to the lymphnodes often depends on the type of cancer you have. There are different forms

Papillary and/or mixed papillary/follicular ~ 78%
Follicular and/or Hurthle cell ~ 17%
Medullary ~ 4%
Anaplastic ~ 1%

I was diagnosed with mixed papillary/follicular carcinoma in 2007. I’ve been fighting ever since.

I’m not gonna pretend with you… your nodule is big. My biggest measured at 4.8 cm. The smallest 4.6 cm. Not too much bigger then yours, they wanted them removed for that reason alone.

Please note, that thryoid cancer is not detectable by blood tests. Many noncancerous thyroid conditions can cause an elevated thyroglobulin level thus the reason the blood tests are not used to determine cancer.

I have provided you with some links to read up all about thyroid cancer and disease. These links have helped me so much, from when they first discovered my nodules and throughout my fight.

Best of luck to you…

Feel free to contact me if you need support, I’ve been where you are and will be for the rest of my life!

Q: What is the treatment for thyroid cancer?
I have enlarged nodules and am wondering about treatment for thyroid cancer, if in fact I do have cancer. I have enlarged nodules on my left and right side.

A: You have a 95% chance of NOT having thyroid cancer. The treatment for thyroid cancer varies depending on the type and stage. The most common types of thyroid cancer (Papillary and Follicular) always have a surgical removal of the thyroid and (sometimes) follow up treatment of Radioactive Iodine (I-131) to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue. Levothyroxine is needed for life since a total thyroidectomy results in one not being able to produce thyroid stimulating hormone. Try not to worry, good luck with everything! http://thyca.org

Q: Can benign thyroid nodule become malignant cancer?
1) say biopsy shows nodule is benign, fine, but how do i know this will not turn into malignant cancer in future ?

2) should i be repeating biopsy every month or what?

3) and can (numerous) biopsies get the nodule to become malignant?

4) anyone whose biopsy detected benign nodule but this ended up being malignant cancer after some time?

A: my best friend of 20 years + had exactly the same as this. When she was around 35 she developed a lump in her neck – the doctor did a biopsy and the results came back benign. He gave her the choice, leave the lump there as it is harmless or, have it removed. I told her to have it removed as I wouldn’t want a lump in me. So, she gets it removed and as procedure, they test it. They then discover it is cancerous – she goes back in for a major operation to have her whole tyriod removed and is now on tyroxine. Remember that a biopsy only removes a small area of tissue and if that area isn’t cancerous then the results will be clear. Hope this helps.

Q: Will all nodules in the neck become thyroid cancer?
nodules in the neck

A: The short answer to that question is NO!
If you have a nodule in your thyroid it will be monitored. They may decide to take it out. The only way to tell if it’s cancer or not is either by a FNA(Biopsy) or to have it removed and sent to pathology.

I’ve sent you a link to a great website so you could educate yourself about the thyroid, diseases of it including cancer.

best of luck…

Q: is new nodule in neck thyroid cancer?
my friend had lymphoma but has been cancer free until they found a nodule in her neck near the thyroid gland, on a recent check up. Could this be related to the lymphoma returning or a whole new cancer of the thyroid?

A: Only her doctors will be able to determine what it is. I had a nodule in my thyroid that was biopsied and it was beign, but about 30 years later I had 2 others sitting behind it, and they were cancer. I hope that everything is going to be okay with your friend. I know she has already gone through enough already.

Q: THYROID CANCER? Is a cold, single thyroid nodule shows vascularization and calcification more likely to be ?
malignant or benign?

Statistically speaking

A: A single thyroid nodule is more likely to be malignant than multiple nodules, but 95% of nodules are benign. A cold nodule (doesn’t make thyroid hormone) can be malignant or benign, but warm or hot nodules have a better change of being benign. A biopsy is usually suggested for cold nodules, but be reassured that 85% of of cold nodules are benign. Fine, tiny microcalcifications are more suspicious for malignancy than large calcifications. Increased vascularity can be present in both benign and malignant thyroid nodules. If there are a number of suspicious signs, a biopsy would probably be suggested.

Q: can beningn thyroid nodule become malignant cancer?
1) say biopsy shows nodule is benign, fine, but how do i know this will not turn into malignant cancer in future ?

2) should i be repeating biopsy every month or what?

3) and can (numerous) biopsies get the nodule become malignant?

4) anyone whose biopsy detected benign nodule but this ended up being malignant cancer after some time?

A: Benign nodules of the thyroid gland are very common. Probably 25% of folks walking around have little lumps and bumps on their thyroids. They don’t usually turn malignant. Repeated biopsies don’t cause cancer either.

You could check on the nodule yearly. Even an ultrasound of your thyroid, yearly, can detect changes in the nodule.

Personally, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer 5 years ago. It’s actually an “easy” cancer to treat…no chemo or radiation. Just surgery and radioactive iodine.

I’m sure you’ll be fine!

regards,
mari

Q: What are the chances I have thyroid cancer?
I know there is a 5% chance of cancer if only a nodule is found. BUT I have been having unknown health problems for 4 years. They found my thyroid level to be pretty low. The nodule was mostly solid and the ultrasound couldnt rule cancer out. I didnt see anything about hot or cold. The specialist said he cant see me for 2 months. Ofcourse I am not going to wait that long. Does it seem like my chances are higher than 5%?

A: I guess it is hard to tell, unless I know more about you, but I will try my best to give you some risk factors so you can have a general idea.

Risk factor for thyroid cancer can generally divided intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic risk factors are woman, elderly, and family history of thyroid cancer like MEN syndrome, FAP, etc.
Extrinsic risk factors are diet low in iodide, prior radiation

But the only way to be sure is to do a Fine needle aspiration. (For some time, like follicular cancer, an excisional biopsy is needed)

Hope that helps. Good luck

Q: Where are the top sites in the US for thyroid cancer evaluation and treatment?
Female, 62 years, on Synthroid for 20+ years after thyroid stopped functioning. Recent ultrasound shows two solid nodules (under 2 cm, one in each lobe) and a 3rd nodule “in the upper pole.” Thyroglobulin blood test abnormal. Hoarse voice. Had thyroid scan today. Internist felt growth 3 wks ago which prompted ultrasound. Internist suggests biopsies next at area diagnostic center. Earliest date available Oct. 10. Is this good advice or should I seek endocrinologist exam now? Am a 6 year uterine cancer survivor at an excellent, regional cancer center, which does very little with thyroid cancer. What are the top centers for thyroid cancer? What would you recommend doing in my situation?

A: I had tumors on my thyroid and had it removed when I was seven years old. I would definitely talk to an endocrinologist, if I were you. No matter whether the advice you were given was good or not, the endocrinologist will know what is best for you. Baylor in Dallas is an excellent hospital. They’ve done all of my thyroid related surgeries.

0 comments

papillary thyroid cancer

Categories: Thyroid Cancer

Read and learn more about papillary thyroid cancer. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: what are the next steps in papillary thyroid cancer reoccurance?
i had papillary thyroid cancer 2 years ago. it was removed with a total thyroidectomy. i had radioactive iodine treatment after surgery and i’ve been tested here and there since. i just had a routine ultrasound where they found a suspicious lymph node. i’m scheduled for a FNA (fine needle) my question is, if the results come back positive for a reoccurance, what will ne my next step? more surgery? more RAI? chemo?

A: When I had a recurrence in my lymph nodes I did a low dose RAI followed by a body scan to see where it traveled to and since it was only in 4 of my lymph nodes they removed 11 and then I went off my meds for awhile did another small dose body scan followed by a high dose RAI and body scan but im sure every doctor does things different but that was my experience with it and now I am cancer free again.
I dont think chemo is the treatment of choice because the iodine is move effective on the thyroid and its safer i believe

Q: Which is the place to get treatment for papillary thyroid cancer in India?
Hello,

I am male, 30 years old. Which is the place to get treatment for papillary thyroid cancer in India and How much it cost?

Kindly Reply,
Cancer Fighter.

A: I don’t have an answer, but I do have a site with more info and maybe they can help. www.thyca.org (thyroid cancer survivors for america)

Q: I had papillary thyroid cancer, how long will I live?
I read it on the internet that the prognosis for a person over 50 years old that had papillary thyroid cancer the size of a golf ball (which I had) could only live for 10 years or less. I would really like to know because I want to get my house in order. I am not afraid. So would somebody please tell me.

A: Madam , 1st of all life and death is in the hands of god ,,, so no one can tell you ever how long will you live ,,, but what i can tell you is some statistical facts based on patients diagnosed with Papillary carcinoma of the Thyroid gland ,,

before this i want to bring you some good news i hope:

the treatment for this type of cancer is surgical resection and it is curative in most of the cases
even if the caner cells metastasized (usually to the cervical lymph nodes) they are very responsive for Radiotherapy with Iodine 131…

now the prognosis is EXCELLENT , 20 years survival = 90%
which means , after the time of diagnosis with 20 years you will find patients with this type of cancer are still alive and if they died it is probably due to another cause rather than the actual cancer ,,
so you are lucky to get this type of cancer , because other types like the anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid is very aggressive and rapidly fatal

Q: Best Hospital and Doctor to get treatment for papillary thyroid cancer in Seattle Area?
Hello,

I am 30 years old male diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. I am living in Bellevue. Could you please share info on best hospitals and Doctors to get treatment in Seattle Area?

Thanks,
Cancer Fighter

A: go to www.thyca.org and thyca@yahoogroups.com (the second one is a question answer forum for thryoid cancer folks) and post there.

Q: papillary thyroid cancer spread to lymph nodes question?
my girlfriend has just gotten diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer which has spread to her lymph nodes, has anyone gone through this experience or know of any one that has that can shed some light for me. she is in her mid 30’s. Please anyone that can enlighten me with their experience, i am very worried and terrified.

A: I was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma with lymph node spread when I was 26 and what they did for me was remove my thyroid and the lymph nodes that were effected and a few more just to make sure and then 6 months after surgery I did a round of radiation with is just a iodine pill that you take and a full body scan to make sure there was no uptake but in my case there was so they gave me a higher dose and now I do the RAI body scan every 6 months a so far all is perfect. From everything that my doctors told me and I went to Mayo Hospital is that if you had to choose a cancer to have just because you would want thyroid cancer because it is very slow growing with close to 100% cure rate even with lymph node spread and recurrence hope I was able to help

Q: Can one form of cancer (specifically papillary thyroid cancer) lead to another cancer?
I have had papillary thyroid cancer and got it removed in July 2005. I was wondering if this makes me more prone to other cancers, such as skin cancer. Ever since my surgury, I’ve been so suspicious of cancer popping up in other place, and I just wanted to know what I should look out for. Thanks.

A: Cancer is a whole body thing – not just one type of cancer in one place. The problem with the current system of medicine is that it treats symptoms only, and never considers the cause. If you have cancer, your whole body has it, although it may show in only one place.
The solution is to go for a holistic cure, of which about 100 are available,
They are not publicised by the cancer industry, because there is no money to be made. For the same reason, they are not approved by the FDA, so even if doctors do know about them, they are not allowed to recommend them.

For a detailed report on this subject, and some holistic cures, see

http://dgwa1.fortunecity.com/body/cancer.html

Q: I have been diagnosed with Papillary Thyroid Cancer. What are dangers of radioactive iodine dye treatment?
I am also going to have my entire thyroid removed before the iodine dye treatment is done. The iodine dye treatment is being done through an IV in my wrist. I will be completely off my synthroid.

A: I had papillary cancer also. Never had the radioactive iodine treatment, backed out of it because of fertility concerns. Which the doctor than consulted someone at Columbia University and found out I was right. It is temporary though. Other concerns are damage to your salivary glands, usually temporary but may be permanent. Sucking candies are recommended. Also there is a small chance of developing a secondary cancer even though the radiation is targeted at remaining thyroid cells.

It has been 5 years, and I have a new doctor who wants me to see a specialist to see if radioactive iodine treatment is needed. Also there is a drug you can take so you do not need to go off synthroid. Not all places use it.

My initial doctor never thought I needed radioactive iodine treatment, but every endocrinologist I see does.

Q: I was diagnosed w/papillary thyroid cancer. What was your experience with meds/surgery?
I am meeting a surgeon on Monday to schedule my thyroidectomy. I am 41, healthy, normal functioning thyroid otherwise. I am concerned about weight, meds, moods, the actual surgery……what has been your experience? I am an avid exerciser and 130 lbs.

A: This one is a long answer.

:-)

I was diagnosed at age 26 with papillary thyroid cancer, not really an exerciser, big lover of junk food, but I was about a size 8 (5′4″, 130 pounds) at that time.

I postponed RAI (radioactive iodine) because I wanted to have children.

After the surgery, I didn’t really gain much weight. Some people gain up to 10 pounds that can be blamed on thyroid. Anything more than 10 pounds is probably unrelated to thyroid (lack of exercise, pregnancy weight, etc.).

Your TSH will need to be suppressed for the rest of your life except for when you go through RAI treatment. You’ll need to take a suppressive dose of levothyroxine (T4) like synthroid. Normal TSH is about 1.0-2.0. Yours will need to be around 0.1. This is technically, chemically, hyPERthyroidism. You may feel jittery, panic, hot flashes, heart palpitations, irritable, lose weight, etc. If you feel these symptoms, you may need to slightly lower your dose of meds enough to stop those “hyperthyroidism” symptoms, but still keep your TSH as low as possible.

Mood? Well…being told you have cancer, no matter how “treatable” it is, is life changing and can be very depressing. There have been days that I’ve just sat down in the middle of my living room and just cried my head off. But it’s been almost 6 years now for me…so those days don’t really happen anymore. Instead of thinking “why me” I just try to think “it could have been worse.”

This kind of goes back to what I said before about the hyperthyroidism symptoms. I was feeling depressed and jumpy all at the same time…like panic. My endocrinologist said that I need to “get over it.” My primary care doctor diagnosed me with depression and I took anti-depressants for awhile. The anti-depressants helped a little. I switched endocrinologists and the new one lowered my dosage and I stopped the anti-depressants. Now I feel great!! Turns out it wasn’t really depression…just way too much thyroid hormone.

I have 2 totally healthy kids now. One born after the surgery and the other born after surgery and RAI. Oh…I am still 5′4″ but I weigh about 145 pounds now (baby weight…not thyroid) and I wear a size 10.

The surgery went well. The doctor will cut the nerves in your neck which will numb the area for several months, until the nerves regrow. To this day, I have never felt pain from the surgery. I spent 2 nights in the hospital because my parathyroids went into shock causing my calcium levels to drop. I just had to take a calcium pill and some vitamin d for 1 month. I had sore shoulder muscles though because psychologically, I felt like my neck was cut from end to end even though the incision was only 2 inches. I walked around hunched over for a few weeks. My parents kept reminding me to stand up straight.

As far as recovery…I made Thanksgiving dinner exactly 1 week after surgery. I just had to prove to myself and everyone around me that I could do it and I could beat cancer!

Good luck to you…Check out the website link below for lots of useful info about thyroid cancer.

Regards,
mari

Q: Thyroid Removal & Neck Dissection due to Papillary thyroid Cancer?
Earlier this year I had a swollen lymph node in my neck removed and tested. They determinded that I have papillary thyroid cancer which had spread to my lymph nodes in my neck.

They are suggesting that I have my entire thyroid gland removed along with a neck dissection to remove all the lymph nodes on the left side of my neck. After the surgery I am to do a short amount of iodine treatment and then will be on thyroid medication the rest of my life.

Has anyone had this (or similar) situation? If so, what was your outcome after the sugery? Has being on thyroid medication changed the way you feel?

Thanks in advance for any responses!

-Joe

A: I had my thyroid removed a year ago. It hadn’t spread to the lymph nodes but from what I understand that doesn’t cause any additional problems. The surgery itself was not bad. I was in the hospital for 2 days afterwards. My throat was very sore (like you have a giant lump in your throat), but other than that I felt ok. I took some tylenol but never needed prescription pain medications.

I also had the radioactive iodine treatment 9 months later (I was pregnant so needed to wait until after the baby was born). The only side effect from that was I was tired, but that was probably more for not being on the thyroid hormones. Honestly the low iodine diet before the treatment and isolation from people for a few days after is the worst part – but in the grand scheme of things it’s hard to complain about that.

I now take 125mg of Levoxyl every day, which puts me in the hyperthyroid level. They do that to prevent any lingering thyroid cells from getting back to work. Luckily I don’t have any side effects from the medication. Many people do though so I wouldn’t be surprised if you have some. For example if your levels are too low you may feel tired, and if too high you can have heart palpitations.

I see the doctor every few months to check my levels. I’ll have another test dose of the RAI in a few months (a year from my last one). Hopefully they won’t find anything, but if they do I’ll have another full dose of the RAI.

Cancer is a very scary thing, but so far things have gone well for me. I hope you have the same outcome.

Q: if lymph nodes are involved on a papillary thyroid cancer, can it be spread to stomach?
can it be spread to the lungs?

A: It is rare for papillary to spread all the way down to the stomach. If it has gone untreated for many, many years (20+) then it may be possible. It can spread to the lungs, but it is not that common. A positive thing about pap thyca is that radioactive iodine is usually an effective treatment…I say usually because I had 2 large doses that didn’t do anything to mine, mine was best treated surgically.

Papillary thyroid cancer is very slow growing, one can have it for several years with little change in prognosis. And it is rarely fatal. I have a friend who had thyroid cancer with lung mets, 2 RAI treatments took care of it.

Some useful sites for you:
www.thyca.org
www.thyroid.org
www.endocrineweb.com
www.livestrong.org

Best of luck to you.

Q: need to know about papillary thyroid cancer ?
ok so someone i know just turned 17 and has gotten a blood test back. she has been diagnosed with possible papillary thyroid cancer . she may have had it for about 8 months. how treatable is it, and will she be able to live a normal life afterwards? will she be sick and die in 10 years? :( need to know asap thanks

A: Thyroid cancer is diagnosed through a biopsy so I wouldn’t stress about blood work so much and also if they did have a biopsy and it rules out to be pap. thyroid cancer it is a very slow growing cancer so the chance of it spreading beyond the thyroid is small. What they will do for treatment is remove the thyroid and they may do a follow up radioactive iodine depending on whether there a antibodies present in the blood and after all is done they will be placed on thyroid replacement meds for life. I have pap. thyroid cancer completed all the treatments had 1 recurrence and now am cancer free. Everyones body responds different but thyroid cancer has a high cure rate almost 100% even with recurrence. Hope that helps and best of luck.

Q: I had papillary thyroid cancer, total thyroidectomy, does anyone know whether there are long term consequences?
I had my surgery on Aug. 1 of this year and take Synthroid. My levels are normal but what I want to know is will I have long term effects as a result of not having my thyroid? It controls so many things in my body…how can ONE pill do the job as my thyroid?? :) I am 41 yr old female.

A: You ask a very good question. The thyroid basically produces thyroid hormone and calcitonin a moderator of calcium. Suprisingly ever since we learned about Cretinism and parathyroid glands, we have learned that hormone replacement will not only prevent hypothyroidism but will also prevent TSH production which is important, so as not to stimulate any ectopic or residual thyroid tissue. Papillary carcinoma is the most favorable of thyroid cancers, but there is still plenty of surgeons who would not do a total thyroidectomy for small isolated papillary cancer, so as to avoid deficiency problems. Replacement would still be required to suppress TSH.

Q: Can anyone explain papillary thyroid cancer in layman’s terms? What is the prognosis for a 14 year old female?

A: Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common form of cancer of the thyroid gland, which is a major gland in the front part of everyone’s neck.

It is almost always treated surgically and is almost always cured. It can spread locally, but rarely spreads widely.

Q: Have you put off treatment to get pregnant when experiencing recurrent papillary thyroid cancer in lymph nodes
I’m looking for new treatments other than RAI or surgery. I have been waiting a few years between fertility issues and cancer treatments to get pregnant 36 and the clock is ticking

A: Yes I put off the RAI to get pregnant with my first child. I had papillary thyroid cancer but it had not spread to my lymph nodes. It was encapsulated in my thyroid gland. I had the surgery, total thyroidectomy. I kept my TSH suppressed to 0.1 and got pregnant about 3 months after trying. I was 28 at the time. After my first child was born, I had RAI when he was 7 months. We waited 1 year to try for baby #2 and got pregnant on our first try with baby #2.

Both kids were born full term, totally healthy. I get their thyroids tested every year because I’m paranoid that my thyroid problems passed to my kids. But their thyroid tests come back normal.

So you can put off RAI to have kids or have RAI and then have kids. But once you have RAI, you have to wait 6 months to 1 year to try to conceive.

Just my opinion…since you’re 36…Keep your TSH suppressed and if your thyroglobulin levels are little to nothing…postpone RAI and have a baby first.

Good luck.

regards,
mari

Q: I just got diagnosed with Papillary Thyroid Cancer yesterday. Help?
Im 19 and Im going to get my entire thyroid removed in the beginning of August and possibly my lymph nodes. Have to take a semester or so off school..
Anyone else that has had this please give me your story and opinions.

A: http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/endocrine-system-cancer?ivNPA=1&sky=ggl|hco|ca|thyroidcancers|PPC4070|c

try this site

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thyroid cancer treatment

Categories: Thyroid Cancer

Read and learn more about thyroid cancer treatment. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: What is the treatment for thyroid cancer?
I have enlarged nodules and am wondering about treatment for thyroid cancer, if in fact I do have cancer. I have enlarged nodules on my left and right side.

A: You have a 95% chance of NOT having thyroid cancer. The treatment for thyroid cancer varies depending on the type and stage. The most common types of thyroid cancer (Papillary and Follicular) always have a surgical removal of the thyroid and (sometimes) follow up treatment of Radioactive Iodine (I-131) to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue. Levothyroxine is needed for life since a total thyroidectomy results in one not being able to produce thyroid stimulating hormone. Try not to worry, good luck with everything! http://thyca.org

Q: Why would you face go numb after the radioactive treatment for thyroid cancer?
My girlfriend just did the radioactive iodine treatment for her thyroid cancer and now about 5 days later her left side of her face has gone numb. She called her doctor and mad an appointment but that isnt for 2 days. What is going on and what can she do to make her face not be numb until she goes to the doctors because she is really freaking out.

A: I don’t know if its the treatment or coincidence, but there’s a nerve that runs through the opening in your jaw. If that swells for whatever reason, your face on that side will go numb. It’s called Bell’s Palsy. I had it years ago from a drafty window when I lived up north. I was on prednisone, which took the swelling away.

Q: Which is the place to get treatment for papillary thyroid cancer in India?
Hello,

I am male, 30 years old. Which is the place to get treatment for papillary thyroid cancer in India and How much it cost?

Kindly Reply,
Cancer Fighter.

A: I don’t have an answer, but I do have a site with more info and maybe they can help. www.thyca.org (thyroid cancer survivors for america)

Q: How much does thyroid cancer treatment cost?

A: I racked up over $120,000 in bills in 4 months. I had multiple ultrasounds, an ultrasound guided Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy, those cost close to $3,000. My surgery was more extensive than first planned, so it ended up costing more than $75,000. I had radioactive iodine (I-131) for my follow up treatment, two sets of scans, multiple ultrasounds, CT scans, countless blood tests/ tumor markers…the list goes on! It’s been 20 months since my first diagnosis, and I think my current tab is $150,000 and counting.

Q: Where are the top sites in the US for thyroid cancer evaluation and treatment?
Female, 62 years, on Synthroid for 20+ years after thyroid stopped functioning. Recent ultrasound shows two solid nodules (under 2 cm, one in each lobe) and a 3rd nodule “in the upper pole.” Thyroglobulin blood test abnormal. Hoarse voice. Had thyroid scan today. Internist felt growth 3 wks ago which prompted ultrasound. Internist suggests biopsies next at area diagnostic center. Earliest date available Oct. 10. Is this good advice or should I seek endocrinologist exam now? Am a 6 year uterine cancer survivor at an excellent, regional cancer center, which does very little with thyroid cancer. What are the top centers for thyroid cancer? What would you recommend doing in my situation?

A: I had tumors on my thyroid and had it removed when I was seven years old. I would definitely talk to an endocrinologist, if I were you. No matter whether the advice you were given was good or not, the endocrinologist will know what is best for you. Baylor in Dallas is an excellent hospital. They’ve done all of my thyroid related surgeries.

Q: Best Hospital and Doctor to get treatment for papillary thyroid cancer in Seattle Area?
Hello,

I am 30 years old male diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. I am living in Bellevue. Could you please share info on best hospitals and Doctors to get treatment in Seattle Area?

Thanks,
Cancer Fighter

A: go to www.thyca.org and thyca@yahoogroups.com (the second one is a question answer forum for thryoid cancer folks) and post there.

Q: Radioactive Iodine Treatment for Thyroid Cancer? Questions to ask?
I have a friend who has Thyroid cancer and has had the tumor and her thyroid removed. Tomorrow she is going for her consultation for the radioactive iodine treatment, and she wants to go in to the appointment with a list of questions that she should ask. Anyone have any suggestions?

A: I assume you are refering to the ablative treatment (destroy any remaining thyroid/turmor tissue). She will get a lot of information on dealing with the 3 to 5 days after treatment where she will need to avoid contact with other people. the person who is assisting in her care should also attend. Good questions to ask are about dealing with possible side affects (e.g. painful saliva glands) and other possible side affects. She is probably feeling lousy right now having been off the tyroid medicane for several weeks. So questions about when she can again start the thyroid meds again.

Q: What is the resent development in the treatment of thyroid cancer which affect bone for more than 6 years?
My wife is seriously sick with thyroid cancer which affected her left leg bone

A: There is one that I have heard. It makes little sense that it would have to be in the bones for 6 years.

Q: Need recommendations for Holistic Vets in Sydney – Thyroid Cancer treatment?
Hi everyone

My staffy x Charlie has just been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, he has just had his radiation treatment yesterday. I am trying to find an experienced, highly recommended Holistic Vet within Sydney that I can see about his diet, herbal supplements etc

Has anyone used a Holistic Vet for the treatment of their pets cancer? If so was it successful? And secondly can anyone recommend a good, geniune, experienced holistic vet that I can take my little man to?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

A: I am in the US, so I can’t help you with finding a Holistic Vet in Sydney. But I used to Tech for a well respected Veterinary Internist. We had several clients that went to a Holistic Vet in another state. They drove a long way to see this vet. Then we would do the follow up care. One case we had was a dog with a rectal tumor. The dog lived for a couple of years, BUT the owner had the tumor reduced surgically several times. It was an aggressive cancer, and ultimately killed the dog, but the dog lived a couple of years more than it would have.
We also had another dog that had a brain tumor. The owner went to the same vet. The dog lived about 9-12 months with the brain tumor.
I don’t know if I have answered your question, but I wish you luck with your dog.

Q: What is the cost of radioactive iodine treatment for thyroid cancer?

A: They usually use radioactive iodine isotopes as tracers, Go to Google and type in Association of Oncology social work.
I believe you are speaking of Lymphoma.
There is some help I believe, you just have to look for it.

Q: What are the effect after treatment of thyroid cancer?

A: You become hypothyroid and go on thyroid medication.

Q: Have you put off treatment to get pregnant when experiencing recurrent papillary thyroid cancer in lymph nodes
I’m looking for new treatments other than RAI or surgery. I have been waiting a few years between fertility issues and cancer treatments to get pregnant 36 and the clock is ticking

A: Yes I put off the RAI to get pregnant with my first child. I had papillary thyroid cancer but it had not spread to my lymph nodes. It was encapsulated in my thyroid gland. I had the surgery, total thyroidectomy. I kept my TSH suppressed to 0.1 and got pregnant about 3 months after trying. I was 28 at the time. After my first child was born, I had RAI when he was 7 months. We waited 1 year to try for baby #2 and got pregnant on our first try with baby #2.

Both kids were born full term, totally healthy. I get their thyroids tested every year because I’m paranoid that my thyroid problems passed to my kids. But their thyroid tests come back normal.

So you can put off RAI to have kids or have RAI and then have kids. But once you have RAI, you have to wait 6 months to 1 year to try to conceive.

Just my opinion…since you’re 36…Keep your TSH suppressed and if your thyroglobulin levels are little to nothing…postpone RAI and have a baby first.

Good luck.

regards,
mari

Q: anyone been through treatment for papilliary thyroid cancer?
I am 30 and was diagnosed last year. I have three young children and a wonderful fiance, but none of them understand how i feel preparing to come off meds for tests at the minute and i’m absolutely dreading it. I live in the uk btw
Anyone been in same boat?

A: I had pap cancer a few years ago. I am 44 years old. I had a total thyroidectomy, because I felt it would be safer and maybe prevent further surgeries. I had 2 rounds of radioactive iodine (a small one that I stayed at home with and a second one with a hospital stay). Being off meds was the worst. I felt like a slug. This past year, my doctor told me there was a new Thyroglobulin test that didn’t require me to get off my meds. He said it was through MD Anderson in Houston, Texas and that it was ultra-sensitive. I was thrilled not to have to go through all that again. I’ll be praying for you.

Q: Is 8 years of thyroid cancer diagnosis then treatment harmful?

A: If someone waited 8 yrs to get treatment after being diagnosed with cancer, it may have spread to other areas and may be terminal. It could end up in the lymph nodes, lungs and bones. By the time 8 years is up, treatment may be a waste of time.

Q: I have been diagnosed with Papillary Thyroid Cancer. What are dangers of radioactive iodine dye treatment?
I am also going to have my entire thyroid removed before the iodine dye treatment is done. The iodine dye treatment is being done through an IV in my wrist. I will be completely off my synthroid.

A: I had papillary cancer also. Never had the radioactive iodine treatment, backed out of it because of fertility concerns. Which the doctor than consulted someone at Columbia University and found out I was right. It is temporary though. Other concerns are damage to your salivary glands, usually temporary but may be permanent. Sucking candies are recommended. Also there is a small chance of developing a secondary cancer even though the radiation is targeted at remaining thyroid cells.

It has been 5 years, and I have a new doctor who wants me to see a specialist to see if radioactive iodine treatment is needed. Also there is a drug you can take so you do not need to go off synthroid. Not all places use it.

My initial doctor never thought I needed radioactive iodine treatment, but every endocrinologist I see does.

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anaplastic thyroid cancer

Categories: Thyroid Cancer

Read and learn more about anaplastic thyroid cancer. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Which is best hospital for Anaplastic thyroid cancer in India ?
Can some one guide which one is the best clinic/hospital for Anaplastic throat cancer ? Surgery has been done and 30 sittings of IMRT (Radaitaion therapy) provided to the patient, yet doctor is not sure for long life ?

A: TATA Memorial Hospital – Mumbai.(best & they are dedicated)

Q: What type of pain meds would generally be prescribed for a patient suffering from anaplastic thyroid cancer?

A: The range is great depending on the individual. Bone pain from cancer or certain cancer treatment medications is handled differently than nerve pain, etc. Some common ones are acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, morphine, hydromorphone, hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, fentanyl, dilauded, methadone, amitriptyline, imipramine, doxepin, trazodone, gabapentin, prednisone and dexamethasone.
The method of application is also different depending on the individual — pill form, patch form and pain pump form are common types.

Q: what ethnicity does anaplastic thyroid cancer affect the most?

A: Females who are White or Asian have a higher risk of getting thyroid cancer. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is usually seen in people older than 65 and all different races. There’s not a whole lot of specific data on Anaplastic thyroid cancer due to the fact that it accounts for 1% of all thyroid cancers, and thyroid cancer accounts for around 1% of all cancers.

Q: Is there any alternative treatement for Anaplastic Thyroid cancer.?
My mother rencety had total thyroidectomy and she got diagonosed with Anaplastic Thyroid cancer. Every where I read that it typically requires a very aggressive treatment plan with surgery, radiation and sometimes even chemotherapy.

I am trying to find for any other possible alternative treatment options like Naturopathy / Homeopathy / Ayurvedic etc.

A: Please don’t pay attention to the person above with the link to “their” aol site, it’s a scam.

I would suggest looking at some of the links I provided below. One option for your mom is to seek out possible clinical trial drugs; you might find that there is a new, possibly more effective drug in the testing stages that your mom can take if she is selected for a clinical trial.

The main website for clinical trials is:

http://clinicaltrials.gov/

and under the term “anaplastic” I found these possibly useful hits (if the link does not work, simply go to clinicaltrials.gov and do a search for “anaplastic”,”anaplastic thyroid” or “anaplastic thyroid cancer”:

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/search;jsessionid=5F117F9938258D8A3FA429531D2A42F7?term=anaplastic+thyroid

Some drugs that are being tested now include:

-Imatinib (Gleevec): http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00115739?order=8
-Combretastatin A4:
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00060242?order=9
-Combination Treatments:
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00077103?order=3
-Sorafenib:

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00126568?order=5

Please check the site out. Note a few things:
-The clinical trials may apply only to certain conditions, so make sure your mom might qualify
-Jot down various drug treatments (many ARE NOT known by the doctor who is treating your mom, since they are brand new in many cases). Make sure you don’t simply ignore a new treatment option simply because your doctor doesn’t know about it.

Here are some other sites that may interest you:

On Thyroid Cancer Generally:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo/pdq/treatment/thyroid/patient

Treatments for Anaplastic Cancers (conventional)

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/thyroid/Patient/page8

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/cri/content/cri_2_4_4x_treatment_of_thyroid_cancer_by_stage_43.asp?sitearea=cri

Clinical trials:

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Clinical_Trials_for_Thyroid_Cancer_43.asp?rnav=cri

Some Alternative Treatment Options:

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ETO/ETO_5.asp?sitearea=ETO

Q: can someone suggest treatment for anaplastic thyroid cancer?
my father is 70 years old.he does not have any symptoms except hoarseness of voice

A: First and foremost, he needs to have this thyroid and cancerous lymph nodes surgically removed. Do to its poor responsiveness to Radioactive Iodine, Radiation therapy usually combined with chemotherapy would be the next treatment steps. It’s best to look into clinical trials as well. Good luck!

Q: Is there any way to reduce side effects of external Radiation for Thyroid cancer?
My mother has Anaplastic Thyroid cancer. She has already started treatement for external radiation (one week is over and still 5 more weeks to go)

Is there any way to reduce side effects of external Radiation for

A: Not really. You just have to treat the side effects as they come up. Her doctor should be examining her about once a week during treatment. He should be able to give her something for whatever bothers her during treatment. I had a huge radiation sore throat and also got shingles. But they were right on it with some treatment.
Best wishes

Q: URGENT!!!Does anyone know any Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer patient who’s survived more than 5 yrs aftr detection?
i mean, WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM POSSIBLE SURVIVAL???

A: My cancer was papillary but de-differentiated. Mine is like anaplastic. I recently had a thoracotomy to remove cancer that had spread near the heart. It has been 5 years since my detection. They just keep removing cancer as they find it in PET scans. I have a group if you want to chat further, see the link

Q: My mother was diagnosed with Anaplastic throat cancer. She underwent surgery too and then 25 sittings of IMRT?
My mother aged 54 years is staying in India and getting treatment at Bangalore. She had a swelled neck for a no of years. She was recetly dignosed for Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer in Bangalore city of India. Doctor performed surgery and provides radio therapy 2 times a week since last 4-5 months. He opines that despite medical treatment, he does not know how long my mom’s life is. He says ‘keep ur fingers crossed’. Of course, it triggers trauma for me and my siblings.

I sincerly request you to guide me how to save my mother’s life. Which one is the best clinic or best doctor to treat Anaplastic cancer ?If India has no option,in USA, where should I go ?

A: I sorry to hear about your mother.

One of the biggest factors in how long a cancer patient will live is how soon it was discovered and what it’s “stage” was. That means how much it has spread. Obviously, the more spread, the worse the prognosis.

Your best bet may be to check with the oncology (cancer) department at a major teaching hospital in say Delhi or Kolkat (spelling?). They would need all your mom’s records, just as any center in the US would.

As for US centers, 3 of the best would be The Mayo Clinic, The Cleveland Clinic, and Sloan-Kettering in Ny.

Best of luck to you & your family.

Q: can needle biopsy get benign tumor become malignant cancer?
some people say this is a myth, but this makes sense as some tumors become malignant for some reason at some point. So if biopsy shows the tumor is benign u will have to repeat this biopsy (every month? as some malignant cancers can kill within 3 months like thyroid anaplastic cancer) to make sure it did not get malignant yet – so what’s the point in this procedure unless u actually have malignant cancer in the first place?

A: It is true that some benign tumors can become malignant. It is however very rare for that to happen. It is highly unlikely that a needle biopsy can cause a tumor to become malignant. Malignancy is caused by a mutation below the cellular level. Mutations are either genetic, chromosomal or caused by damage from chemicals, NOT damage from macro pressures. People do not get cancer from blunt force trauma or cuts, they get cancer from the cellular changes caused by radiation or smoking or…etc. A needle biopsy can show if a tumor is benign or malignant and is necessary to be repeated if your tumor is at risk for becoming malignant because early detection could save your life. Some people with non-cancerous tumors elect to have the affected part of their body removed anyway to be sure that the malignancy can never form (e.g. breasts, uterus, prostate). Another reason for repeat needle biopsies is that a needle can only reach one tiny point in the organ and there could be cancer elsewhere that the needle did not touch (e.g. liver). If a doctor has advised you to have a needle biopsy, please do it. It CANNOT cause you to develop cancer. Really.

Q: if scans can early detect cancer why r we not doing them often enough?
i mean e.g. ultrasound and MRI scans that r harmless, and can detect cancer early before it is too late to cure it (some cancer types develop within 3 months rather then 3 years e.g. thyroid anaplastic cancer, etc . why r we not doing them say each 2-3 months to be on safe side? is it due to costs or pure stupidity? better be safe then sorry no?

A: It’s a bit too soon to say that MRI scanning is “harmless.” Better to say that harm has not yet been proven, as an MRI is a relatively novel test. An MRI of the head takes about 45 min in the machine. An MRI of the entire body would take several hours per person. 300 million people x 3 hours each = 900,000,000 hours. That’s 1.3 million months for one pan-scan of the entire US. Not counting the time it takes to look at all those pictures. Even spread among multiple MRI machines, that’s nuts. Every 2 or 3 months as you suggest…..would be inane. Also, what if you find a thyroid nodule or an adrenal nodule or a liver cyst? All three of these are VERY common, and mostly benign. Are you going to sign all of those people up for biopsies now? Those aren’t without risk.

I’m glad you left CT scans out of this, as they do have ionizing radiation and have the potential to cause cancer if you did them enough.

An ultrasound isn’t a great tool for picking up small asymptomatic cancers. You don’t get a great look at the pancreas, you can’t see through bone to the brain, you can’t see through air to look at the lung or the colon.

Also, many cancers don’t have much better death rates even when diagnosed earlier. It seems like survival time is longer, but it just seems that way because you picked it up earlier. It’s called lead-time bias. Diagnosing anaplastic thyroid cancer is a pretty dismal diagnosis no matter what stage you pick it up in. Same with pancreatic cancer.

Q: how often to do routine (ultrasound) scans against cancer to be safe ?
my grandmother died of thyroid anaplastic cancer. it killed her in 3 months. If she was undergoing screening ultrasound scans each year, it still would kill her, as this developed within few months. so we should do these scans each 2 weeks to discover this crap as soon as poss?

this question applies to other cancer types that develop similarly quick and and can not be cure when give symptoms and that you are not safe doing routine scans say yearly….
obviously classic yearly check ups are not frequent enough!

A: You should undergo complete medical checkup every year. If there are abnormal signs and symptoms, then the doctor will conduct further tests including ultrasound scan.

Q: My mothher was diagnosed with Aaplastic throat cancer. She underwent surgery too and then 25 sittings of IMRT?
My mother aged 54 years is staying in India and getting treatment at Bangalore. She had a swelled neck for a no of years. She was recetly dignosed for Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer in Bangalore city of India. Doctor performed surgery and provides radio therapy 2 times a week since last 4-5 months. He opines that despite medical treatment, he does not know how long my mom’s life is. He says ‘keep ur fingers crossed’. Of course, it triggers trauma for me and my siblings.

I sincerly request you to guide me how to save my mother’s life. Which one is the best clinic or best doctor to treat Anaplastic cancer ?If India has no option,in USA, where should I go ?

A: Sanjay, I am so sorry to hear this about your mom. Have you tried prayer? You know prayer is a very strong tool when things are out of our control!!

I feel for you and your siblings and if you all are wanting to bring her to the USA for more treatment….I would suggest MD Anderson, Houston, Texas! It is one of the top hospitals for cancer. They really are on the “cutting edge” scientifically, with cancer.

I have a cousin, she is now fighting her third bout of cancer. This time, it came back beside her spine! A very dangerous place for this to be! Her docotrs gave up on her here! However, she went to MD A nderson and she is doing well! So, yes, I have a family member who has turned to them as well.

I will be praying for you, your Mom and your siblings. May God bless you and guide you!

Q: What r the fastest progressing / aggressive cancers?
i know that thyroid anaplastic cancer can kill u within 2-4 months from its start. when they diagnose it, it is too late

1) what r other cancer types with similar prognosis?

2) what is the way to early detect them and survive?

A: I am not a doctor, so can only speak from experience of having seen what happens to friends, brain cancer killed one of my closest friends within three weks of being diagnosed, the only indication he had of his illness was an occasional sight problem, he thought he needed new glasses, and another friend with liver cancer, which was less than two months from diagnosis to him passing away.

Neither of these cancers are curable and I believe like other cancers are more aggressive the younger the patient.

I hope you receive the answer you need from a professional person, and I truly hope that you have only good news.

Q: what r the fastest progressing / aggressive cancers?
i know that thyroid anaplastic cancer can kill u within 2-4 months from its start. when they diagnose it, it is too late

1) what r other cancer types with similar prognosis?

2) what is the way to early detect them and survive?

A: The cancers that I know the most about that are the most aggressive . . actually have no names . . they are unspecified because they are so abnormal looking that almost no known treatment is effective. They can arise in an unknown location within the body, metastasize, and are so aggressive that no response is seen from chemotherapy . . if they are removed surgically they grow back within weeks . . and radiation is totally ineffective. These types of tumors quickly overwhelm the body and the patient passes before any type of treatment can be done.

Cancer of Unknown Primary

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_1X_What_is_cancer_of_unknown_primary_58.asp

Q: can needle biopsy get benign tumor become malignant cancer?
some people say this is a myth, but this makes sense as some tumors become malignant for some reason at some point. So if biopsy shows the tumor is benign u will have to repeat this biopsy (every month? as some malignant cancers can kill within 3 months like thyroid anaplastic cancer) to make sure it did not get malignant yet – so what’s the point in this procedure unless u actually have malignant cancer in the first place?

A: Well, you wouldn’t know it was malignant unless you got the biopsy, so…………. I don’t think, although I am not sure, that biopsy change the disposition of the cells to become malignant eventhough they may do solater due to another cause.

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