Thyroid help

momand2kids
momand2kids Member Posts: 1,508

Hi there-

recently had a ct scan for my lungs for a persistent cold--lungs were clear, but of course, they found a nodule on my thyroid.  Had an ultrasound the other day- dr. just called.  Three nodules-two really small, one almost 2 cm, which means they have to biopsy the 2 cm one.  

I know that the chances are good that it is not cancer, but there is always a chance-- going to try to get the biopsy scheduled asap--- does anyone have any experience with thyroid cancer? 

thanks

Comments

  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited May 2014

    I had nodules and that is just what they were....nodules. Not cancer at all. If it is the rare chance that is is c, know that thyroid cancer is very slow growing and one of the few that medical folks say can be cured completely. Try not to worry till you know.

    Claire

  • momand2kids
    momand2kids Member Posts: 1,508
    edited May 2014

    Thanks Claire--it is so funny- I am so much less worried--- mostly worried about scheduling so I can still have  a great summer if I have to have any surgery.  My onc send me some names of surgeons and oncologists in this area-adding that they probably won't be necessary.  I have a biopsy appointment on 6/5 but am trying to get it moved up.  Just so I can plan.  But, you are right, it is immensely treatable, I would just like to try to keep my thyroid if at all possible.....

    keep you all posted.

  • gemini4
    gemini4 Member Posts: 532
    edited May 2014

    hi there -- I have no experience with this myself, but a good friend had thyroid cancer about five years ago, and I think she's pretty much cured, as Claire mentioned. My friend had surgery to remove the thyroid and a single session of heavy-duty radiation. She had to be quarantined afterwards because she was radioactive!  But it was once and done. She also has not gained any weight (always a factor when the thyroid is removed). She has been a strict vegan for 20 years and exercises regularly, so that could be part of it. 

    In the off chance that yours is cancer (and I'm crossing every finger and toe that it's not!), I can ask her if she recommends her team. She is also here in Boston -- I can't remember which hospital she went to.  

  • vbishop
    vbishop Member Posts: 616
    edited May 2014

    Mom -

    I had thyroid cancer approximately 15 years ago.  I am officially considered cured.  Having nodules on the thyroid is not uncommon.  If fact, the opposite is true.  Are there symptoms of thyroid cancer?  Yes...and no.  The symptoms are that of thyroid issues:  possible lumps or nodules, hair loss, brittle nails, diarrhea or constipation, dry skin, irritability, tired, inability to sleep, nervousness, etc.  The list goes on.  The thyroid affects darn near everything!  I hope you have a good endocrinologist! 

    My surgery played havoc on my thyroid hormones and threw my levels way off.  After several months we may just now be getting them in check.  I have been having appointments every six weeks for blood work until the levels get back in line.  Meds have been lowered three times.  For the first time in three months, the doc is NOT lowering my dosage.  Maybe we have it right.  We'll see when I have blood work done, again, in early July.

    Good luck.  Certain types of thyroid cancer are curable, but there is one that is very ugly and aggressive. 

  • momand2kids
    momand2kids Member Posts: 1,508
    edited May 2014

    Thanks all

    I have no thyroid issues.... my 13 year old does have hypothyroidism and is just now regulating the meds with her endocrinologist.  I don't currently have an endocrine person because I have had no need.  The biopsy is on 6/5--if it is benign, I don't see the need for one--- my pcp can monitor it.... if not, I will obviously have to get one--my onc has already given me names.  

    All of the literature appears to be in my favor-- I have 3 nodules, one over the size limit for testing (it is a good indicator if you have more than on nodule-most likely benign), no symptoms, etc.  But, I was not a candidate for breast cancer either..... sigh.  I am hoping to keep my thyroid.  What is so frustrating is that I should be celebrating my 5.5 year bc anniversary and the elimination of the AI's etc. but I cannot seem to do that until I have these results next week---- I have always promised myself that I would not delay celebration, but I am doing a little of it now.

    I have read up on this and it seems that most types are curable--you are right vbishop, there is one that is more aggressive--I certainly hope that is not on the docket.... I am planning for the worst and hoping for the best.

    thanks

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