The most common way to detect thyroid cancer is to undergo a physical exam. The thyroid gland produces a hormone known as thyroid hormones that are released into the bloodstream. The hormones regulate the body’s metabolism. The pituitary gland gives the thyroid instructions on how to produce more of the hormone. The higher the levels of thyroid hormones, the faster the body’s metabolism will be. However, if you experience the following symptoms, your doctor may recommend a different test.
There are different types of thyroid cancer, including medullary and follicular cancer. Follicular cancers tend to spread throughout the body and is difficult to treat. However, anaplastic thyroid cancer is rare and accounts for only 2% of cases. Anaplastic thyroid cancer, on the other hand, grows rapidly and may spread to the surrounding tissue and even to other areas of the body. Although rare, anaplastic thyroid cancer is the most aggressive type and can lead to a tracheal obstruction and massive hemorrhaging.
People with small papillary thyroid cancer may have a long and difficult time finding out they have it. Some people may even die from it before receiving treatment. Unfortunately, many people with this type of cancer do not know they have it until it has spread and requires surgery. Overtreatment of small papillary thyroid cancer will result in side effects and high costs. It’s important to understand all of your options before committing to any treatment. A well-trained doctor will provide you with the proper information you need to make an informed decision regarding your treatment options.
Thyroid cancer can be diagnosed using various methods. A doctor can use intravenous or oral chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells. Another treatment option involves hormone therapy, which blocks the production of certain hormones that can spread the cancer and make it come back. Fortunately, the treatment is not life-threatening, and thyroid cancer patients will still have to take synthetic hormones for the rest of their lives. The drugs used in this treatment are known as thyroid hormone substitutes.
The risk of thyroid cancer is increased among women compared to men. While thyroid cancer has been associated with a higher risk in males, women are more likely to develop the disease in their adulthood. In addition, females are diagnosed at a younger age than men. Seventy percent of new cases of thyroid cancer in women are diagnosed before the age of 55. Even children are at risk for developing thyroid cancer. And the average life expectancy is now 5 years, which is a significant increase from past decades.
Treatment for thyroid cancer will depend on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Treatment options will include surgery and radioactive iodine therapy. In some cases, surgery is the mainstay. The doctor may also remove the affected lymph nodes as part of the surgical procedure. If the cancer spreads, surgery may be the only option for treatment. Once treatment has been completed, you will have to undergo follow-up ultrasounds and other studies to monitor the progress of your condition.
