Thyroid scan results

[nw1991]

I was sent for an ultrasound on my thyroid today. The doctor advised my thyroid is significantly enlarged, I have a number of nodules around 3.5cm and I also have one cyst. Can anyone tell me what this means as I have no idea! Thanks

[Greekchick]

Hi nw1991,

It is my understanding that nodule formation is common with Hashimotos disease, which I read you

have from your profile. Nodules larger than 2.5 cm are considered large and it is recommended that they are biopsied and followed, even though 95% are benign. Cysts are fluid filled nodules - but these may also contain solid material and should also be biopsied as those with solid material are more likely to be problematic than the liquid filled ones.

The overall recommendation from most of the literature is that these nodules and cysts should be monitored regularly for changes in size, shape and composition. A watch and wait approach is recommended.

Has your voice changed or do you have problems breathing? These would be signs that further attention may be needed.

Wishing you all the best.

[nw1991 in reply to Greekchick]

Hi Greekchick,

Thanks so much for your response. That’s really good to know. My voice is fine, but I do feel as though there is something in my throat all the time and especially when swallowing but no issue to my breathing etc. I’m assuming it may be a watch and wait approach with a possible biopsy in my case.

Thanks for your well wishes

[Greekchick]

I would pay attention to the swallowing and if it gets worse, have it checked out just for peace of mind (usually an ENT looks at your throat with a light guided camera through the nose).

[SlowDragon Administrator]

As you have Hashimoto's and loads of symptoms you should probably be started on Levothyroxine

This may help shrink thyroid too

What were your latest blood test results?

For full Thyroid evaluation you need TSH, FT4 and FT3 plus both TPO and TG thyroid antibodies tested. Also important to test vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12

Low vitamin levels are extremely common, especially if Thyroid antibodies are raised

Recommended on here that all thyroid blood tests should ideally be done as early as possible in morning and fasting. This gives highest TSH, lowest FT4 and most consistent results. (Patient to patient tip, best not mentioned to GP or phlebotomist)

Is this how you do your tests?

Private tests are available. Thousands on here forced to do this as NHS often refuses to test FT3 or antibodies or all vitamins

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

Medichecks Thyroid plus ultra vitamin or Blue Horizon Thyroid plus eleven are the most popular choice. DIY finger prick test or option to pay extra for private blood draw. Both companies often have special offers, Medichecks usually have offers on Thursdays, Blue Horizon its more random

As you have Hashimoto's......Are you on strictly gluten free diet?