goiter

[fern123]

hi sorry if that's not the correct spelling but I have a sore neck which seems to be swelling in the area of the thyroid, I have has blood tests approx. 2 years ago due to other symptons but all came back within range. My neck is quite uncomfortable now, I am looking for guidance regarding what could be causing this and what questions to ask the doctor, thanks.

[radd]

Fern,

The reference range used in thyroid function tests for diagnosis of hypothyroidism is considered too wide by many, meaning GP's often miss thyroid issues. There are also other instances when telling thyroid hormones levels may be viewed as " normal" even though the patient is suffering low thyroid hormone and so symptoms.

Ask your doctor to test thyroid hormones and Vit B12, Vit D, folate and ferritin as optimal levels are required for good thyroid function. For a clearer picture it is essential to have the T3 hormone tested but most GP's are reluctant or not allowed to do this due to cost and a wrong thinking that it is irrelevant. Members use private labs - link below.

Also ask for thyroid antibodies TPOAb & TGAb to be tested which will determine Hashimotos Auto Immune Disease which is a very common cause of hypothyroidism.

Post all results complete with ranges ( numbers in brackets) for members to comment.

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Hypothyroidism

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

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Hashimotos

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

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Getting a diagnosis

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/m/gett...

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This following link explains the importance of vitamins and where they may be obtained.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/treatm...

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Private labs testing

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

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[Clutter]

Fern123,

As well as the blood tests Radd recommends ask your GP to palpate your throat and neck. If palpable lumps (nodules) are detected GP should refer you for an ultrasound scan of the thyroid gland.

[fern123 in reply to Clutter]

Hi I have been to docs and being referred for ultrasound scan and just wondering what to expect thanks

[Clutter in reply to fern123]

Fern123,

Gel will be applied to your throat and neck and a hand held scanner will be run up and down your throat and neck. It's non-invasive, not uncomfortable or painful and will take around 10 mins. Some radiographers will discuss the scan with you, others will not and will tell you that the results will be sent to your GP in 10 days.

The scan will measure the size of the gland, note whether the texture is smooth or coarse, note any nodules or cysts, their location, size and whether any suspicious features are visible.

[shaws Administrator]

when you get a blood test for your thyroid hormones it should be the very earliest and fast. If you take thyroid hormones take them after the blood test. Always get a print-out with the ranges for your own records and post if you have a query.

Thyroid hormones should be taken first thing on empty stomach with a full glass of water and wait an hour before eating. You can also take them at bedtime if you prefer as long as you last ate about two hours previously. Food interferes with the uptake of the hormones.

[fern123]

thankyou all for your advise I will post test results when I get them.