Thyroid nodule or thyroid cancer (needs checking)

Overview

Most thyroid cancers are very treatable.

Most thyroid nodules are found on a neck exam or scan done for another reason.

Doctors use the ultrasound look and size to decide on a biopsy.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Lump in the front of the neck
• Lump or nodule in the thyroid

Less common

• Hoarseness
• Trouble swallowing
• Neck fullness

Look up a symptom: Bulging eyes or swelling at the front of the neck · Hoarse voice or trouble swallowing for 3 weeks or more · Lump or nodule in the thyroid

When to get medical care

Causes

Often unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Cancer isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone.
• Some cases run in families. Ask whether genetic testing makes sense for you.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women
• Radiation exposure

Diagnosis

A clinician feels the neck.

Questions you may be asked

• Radiation, family history

The exam

Neck exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• TSH blood test:
• Ultrasound:
• Needle biopsy:

Treatment

Follow up as advised.

Self-care

• Keep ultrasound follow-ups

Surgery for cancer or large nodules.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid unneeded neck radiation

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an oncologist (cancer doctor), often with a surgeon and a radiation doctor.

Living with it

• Take thyroid pills the same way every day, often on an empty stomach.
• Get blood tests as advised.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Cancer Society: Help 24/7 at 1-800-227-2345, rides to treatment, and support programs.
• National Cancer Institute: Cancer Information Service: Free answers from cancer information specialists: 1-800-422-6237.
• American Thyroid Association: Patient guides and support group finder.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women: Nodules are more common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Some cancer treatments can harm a baby. Ask about saving eggs before treatment if you want children later.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most are harmless.

Thyroid cancer is one of the most treatable cancers.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need a biopsy?
• What does my ultrasound score mean?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Thyroid nodule or thyroid cancer (needs checking)