In this article, we’ll go over the types of treatment for thyroid cancer and the risks associated with them. This article will also highlight the different types of radiation therapy, which are currently being studied. During the 1940s and 1960s, this type of treatment was frequently used for benign conditions such as acne. Since then, the population of those who’ve had radiation treatments has experienced an increased risk for thyroid cancer.
Radiation therapy for childhood cancer has been linked to an increased risk of developing thyroid cancer. Radiation exposure is the most well-established risk factor. Young children who have received radiation therapy or total body irradiation for bone marrow transplantation have a greater risk of developing thyroid cancer than children who were not exposed to radiation. Although childhood exposure to radiation is minimal, it should not be ignored. A high-dose of radiation exposure can result in thyroid cancer, but a lower dose is still better than none at all.
In some cases, the diagnosis of thyroid cancer is based on the presence of a nodule. Nodules in the thyroid are rare and are usually found in the left or right side of the Adam’s apple. However, they can be discovered accidentally during a routine medical checkup or on a radiology scan. Thyroid nodules tend to increase in number as a person ages. Studies show that 50% to 75% of older people have a nodule on ultrasound. Although most of these nodules are benign, doctors may need to perform surgery to remove the whole thyroid.
The most common symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump in the neck. Many thyroid cancer patients do not experience symptoms. This is because their thyroid gland is relatively superficial. A nodule may be a sign of a benign condition, such as a thyroid adenoma or an abscess. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, pain in the throat, and trouble breathing.
Survivors of thyroid cancer may undergo active surveillance, which involves regular physical examinations and ultrasounds. This type of treatment is generally safe for papillary thyroid cancer that has not spread. Besides, some people opt for active surveillance due to the risk of side effects that may come with treatment. Others, however, opt for treatment right away. And if your cancer returns after treatment, you may need to undergo additional surgery to remove the remaining part.
Although most patients develop sporadic cases of thyroid cancer, about 30% may be familial. When this type of cancer spreads to the lymph nodes, it can spread to nearby structures such as the esophagus, trachea, or even the neck. When this happens, the patient may experience difficulty swallowing or airway compromise. In addition to being painful, a thyroid tumor in this area may also be resistant to treatment, meaning that it may return after treatment.
