Thyroid Biopsy sore throat

[Poll8]

Hi, I am a novice concerning thyroid problems and am hoping someone can advise and reassure me.

Had a fine needle aspiration thyroid biopsy 4 weeks ago. was perfectly fine before, but now, still have very sore throat 4 weeks later. Mentioned it to consultant last week when he gave me "inconclusive" result, he just shrugged his shoulders. Has anyone else had a sore throat for so long afterwards?

I am concerned because I am due to start my lymphoma chemo next week, which I have waited nearly 6 months for and really don't want anything to delay or interfere with it. They noticed the thyroid nodule on my MRI at the same time as finding the lymphoma, in February this year so it's been a really long wait. Now the thyroid result is inconclusive it will be 6 months before see that consultant again. Your thoughts and advice much appreciated

[PurpleNails Administrator]

Sorry to hear this & how unhelpful your doctors was.

Is the pain like a typical sore throat, scratchy throat on swollen tonsils? - in which case your GP needs to check it.

If it painful at the sample site - that might be an infection?

The thyroid is is lower part of neck, many described a feeling of strangled, is they thyroid swollen causing pain?

What prompted a thyroid scan?

Do you currently take a replacement thyroid.

What is thyroid function? TSH, FT4 & FT3. Ultrasound don’t determine function.

[Poll8 in reply to PurpleNails]

Hi, thanks for your reply.Biopsy was triggered because they saw "something" on the MRI I was having to check for sciatica, which incidentally discovered my lymphoma.

it is just like a bad scratchy sore throat..no other symptoms. Small swelling at base of neck but cant feel a lump anywhere around there, neck, throat, chest.

Have never had any thyroid issues in past (I am 72) so no checks ever been done..just sent for biopsy 5 months later, no other tests done so no function scores.

I am starting chemo next week and my surgery are too busy to arrange the necessary blood tests i need, just told me to look elsewhere and cant get appt. for husband who is in severe pain from RA for 5 weeks..they are not going to see me for a sore throat!

What a shambles!!

[PurpleNails Administrator in reply to Poll8]

How awful - terrible time for you both.

Once you have time p, obtain copies of scan report & alway get print out of any blood test results. This applies to all results not just thyroid function. Online access excellent if practice offers it.

Sore throat might be separate to the biopsy?

If your about to undergo chemo you need to make sure your well. This first thing staff will ask when you arrive at hospital is do you have symptoms related to covid ect.

I do think you need thyroid function test at some stage. I think you have other priorities right now & if getting help from practice is difficult for you could private testing be an option?

You can order a kit online, perform a finger prick sample in you own home & post back. Results can be available to view online very quickly.

Thyroid advanced test by Medichecks is a good option. Will test full thyroid, thyroid antibodies and key nutrients.

Here a link to list of companies & discount codes.

thyroiduk.org/help-and-supp...

I had a fine needle aspiration for thyroid nodule. The result was clear but the function test wasn’t processed. I had abnormal levels & that was missed for many more months.

Even if your function thyroid is good the information on nutrients very useful too.

Hope your treatment goes well.

[Poll8 in reply to PurpleNails]

Sorry I didn't reply earlier, have been at the hospital arranging my blood tests.I contacted the thyroid consultant secretary and asked for the documents as you advised. I usually get my blood tests printed off. It was ansaphone machine.I said I was concerned about sore throat as well and was looking to have the function tests. If I don't get a satisfactory reply I will go down the route you suggest and get private test done.

Thanks for your advice and recommendations. You are all so knowledgeable and helpful..and I am very grateful x

[serenfach]

I have had two fine needle aspirations and did not get a sore throat either time. If some over the counter throat tablets do not help, then you need a medical diagnosis. I am sorry your GP is so useless. Good luck with the chemo - line up treats for yourself to help each day. Hug.

[Poll8 in reply to serenfach]

Hi, thanks for your reply. I am certainly on the "treat route" after failed lymphoma biopsies and excisions! Needed the odd coffee and cookie😀I have left a message for the thyroid consultant and will try to make an appt. with our practice nurse.

Last resort is a walk in clinic about 20 odd miles away.

Thanks for your advice and good wishes..it will all come together in the end!!?