Self-examination of the thyroid is very easy and quick to perform and may indicate the presence of changes in this gland, such as cysts or nodules, for example.
Thus, self-examination of the thyroid should be performed especially by those who suffer from thyroid-related diseases or who exhibit symptoms of changes such as pain, difficulty swallowing, swollen neck feeling. It is also indicated for people who show signs of hyperthyroidism, such as agitation, palpitations or weight loss, or hypothyroidism such as tiredness, drowsiness, dry skin and difficulty concentrating, for example. Learn more about signs that may indicate thyroid problems.
Thyroid nodules and cysts can appear in anyone, but are more common in women after age 35, especially those with thyroid nodules in the family. Most often the nodules found are benign however, when they are detected, they should be investigated by the doctor with more accurate tests such as blood hormone dosages, ultrasound, scintigraphy or biopsy, for example. Check out the tests that evaluate the thyroid and its values.
How to do self-examination
Thyroid self-examination consists of observing thyroid movement during swallowing. For this you will only need:
- 1 glass of water, juice or other liquid
- 1 mirror
You should face the mirror, tilt your head back slightly, and drink the glass of water, watching your neck, and if Adam's apple, also called a gogo, rises and descends normally, unchanged. This test can be performed several times in a row if you have any questions.
What to do if you find a lump
If during this self-exam you feel pain or notice that there is some lump or some other change in the thyroid gland, you should make a medical appointment with a general practitioner or endocrinologist for a blood test and an ultrasound to assess thyroid function.
Depending on the size of the lump, the type and symptoms it causes, the doctor will recommend whether or not to perform a biopsy and, in some cases, until the removal of the thyroid.
If you have found a lump, see how it is done and recovery from thyroid surgery by clicking here.
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