How to test the thyroid by yourself? Thyroid self-examination is very simple and can help identify lumps or any asymmetrical changes that suggest thyroid disease. Find out how to test your thyroid step by step.

How to check the thyroid by yourself?Nothing simpler, but first you need to determine exactly where this organ lies. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. The lobes of the thyroid gland are located on both sides of the trachea.

Thyroid testing

The test that allows to detect the smallest changes in the thyroid gland, including small nodules and inflammations, is an ultrasound of the thyroid gland. Such a test should be performed no more than once every two years, unless the doctor has prescribed a different frequency. “Not all lumps detected in ultrasound may be evidence of a developing neoplasm. Some of them are harmless and require only further observation. However, if the detected changes raise doubts of the doctor, an appointment with an endocrinologist or a biopsy may be necessary "- explains prof. Marek Dedecjus, head of the Department of Oncological Endocrinology and Nuclear Medicine, Oncology Center - Institute in Warsaw.

How to test the thyroid by yourself? Step by step self-examination of the thyroid gland

Between ultrasound examinations, which are performed every two years, you can also perform a self-examination of the thyroid gland. How to make them at home? All you need is a mirror and a glass of water. Stand in front of a mirror so that you can see the front of your neck. Then lift your neck up and take a sip of water into your mouth. Watch your neck in a mirror when you swallow. A moving esophagus will make it easier to spot lumps or any asymmetrical changes.

You can also palpate the thyroid gland. By touching the thyroid with your fingers, you can determine its size, surface, the presence of nodules, whether it is hard or soft, and its soreness. You can also ask your endocrinologist for a thyroid palpation during your visit.

The article uses materials from the organizers of the "Butterflies under protection" campaign.

Thyroid tests

Thyroid tests can basically be divided into two parts - tests of the level of hormones produced by the thyroid gland and imaging tests, the most popular of which isultrasound examination Our expert - endocrinologist Marta Kunkel from Medicover Hospital tells what these thyroid tests look like and what they show.

Category:

Research