large cystic thyroid nodule

[Nanette8]

I have had a goitre for more than 10 years, now it’s increasing in size and is unsightly so I wear high necks or scarves. My thyroid levels are apparently normal. Is it worth having it drained? I have had contradictory advice saying after draining, the nodule soon fills up again and is sometimes bigger than before draining! Are there any alternatives apart from surgery - as I am 81 I feel reluctant to have the operation.

[humanbean]

My thyroid levels are apparently normal.

You should find out your thyroid test results and reference ranges and post them.

The average healthy person with a healthy thyroid has a TSH around 1 - 1.5. But doctors, particularly in the UK, think anything in range or even slightly over range is fine. And the top of the range is often around 4.5 - 5.

Many doctors refuse to treat underactive thyroid until TSH is 10+. Some doctors have been quoted as saying treatment isn't required until TSH is 15+, which would be great if you want to see your patients on their knees begging for help and well on their way to being bald and demented.

[PurpleNails Administrator]

Definitely get a hold of thyroid results and check you’ve had a full check as well as what the results are.

In terms of treatment options, this link may be of interest.

btf-thyroid.org/less-invasi...

You describe your nodule as cystic, but does the scan report specify the size of fluid / solid areas.

[mistydog]

Draining of cysts causes the wall to thicken, so it won't resolve without surgery.