Thyroid nodules can be benign or cancerous. My nodules were discovered as an incidental finding. I actually had an MRI of the cervical spine for chronic pain of the neck and right shoulder. The MRI reading actually identified the nodules approximately 10 years ago. Since then I have had to see an endocrinologist multiple times a year to monitor the nodules. The nodules often grow and reach a size that requires biopsy. I have had multiple biopsies over the years.
Thyroid biopsies can be slightly painful. After the procedure, it is painful to swallow and tenderness/bruising is common. I have had good and bad experiences with my biopsies. I have had biopsies under fluoroscopy or radiological guidance for a more precise look at the thyroid. It was more expensive and time-consuming because I had to make separate appointments with the endocrinologist and the hospital for the procedure. After one hospital biopsy, I decided to find a doctor that performed the biopsy during the visit. That was easier to fit into my schedule and convenient. The procedure was not the most comfortable though. I remember feeling him repeatedly jabbing my thyroid to get a sample. Sometimes he would jab the same nodule from various positions. I remember being uncomfortable for a few days after the procedure and decided there had to be a better way. I asked some friends and family to find an alternate physician.
I found one that was located an hour away. But decided it was worth the drive. Besides, it had to be better than my current situation. The current doctor’s office always took multiple hours to complete the appointment and the new clinic was very reputable and known for promptness. The new physician was very thorough, kind and explained everything well. I had the ultrasound and assessment visit the same day. Depending on the results, he would schedule a biopsy for a few weeks after. He performed the biopsy in the office.
I remember the process was much easier and less painful. I didn’t feel like I was a testing subject being poked and prodded for the specimen. I am really happy with my new physician. It goes to show that you never need to stop at your first doctor for anything.
There are many options out there and we need to be empowered with our health and advocate for ourselves. It is time for my annual visit this week. I thankfully only need annual visits now since the nodules are mostly maintaining themselves and all prior biopsies have been negative. I am excited to see if there has been any change in the nodules since I started the little yellow pill last year. I can’t claim that this is a cure, treat, mitigate or prevent disease but I can tell you the root cause of disease is oxidative stress. I can tell you that treating oxidative stress is the only way to get to the root cause of disease and illness. I can tell you this is the first time the nodule have not grown, and I didn’t need a biopsy this year. Those are all good signs. Fingers crossed and waiting to hear what happens next year.