When signs of thyroid cancer begin to manifest, they often mimic other medical conditions, such as a sinus infection or lymphoma.Unfortunately,
even when the little gland gets out of kilter, it may not demonstrate
detectable signs. Watching for signs is as
puzzling as attempting to validate other aspects of thyroid disorders,
i.e. Hypothyroidism.

For such a tiny body-part, your thyroid gland bears enormous
responsibilities. It produces hormones that affect vital body functions,
such as metabolic rate, growth and heat production.

Does this mean you absolutely cannot monitor for suspicious symptoms of
thyroid cancer? Positively not! Let’s gather facts to raise your awareness.

In most cases, it is the medical practitioner who finds a painless
lump in the patient’s neck. But, when questioned, patients frequently
admit to having experienced subtle signs of thyroid cancer, such as difficulty swallowing or pressure in the neck area.

Fact: Cancerous lumps (nodules) are generally
painless. It’s difficult for a non-professional person to detect lumps. Therefore, The American Association of Clinical
Endocrinologists recommends doing the “Thyroid Neck Check”.

Perform this examination by standing in front of a mirror: Stretch
your neck backwards. As you are swallowing some water, check for bulges between the Adam’s apple and collar bone.

Positive Action: While self-examination can help you detect early warning signs, don’t panic. Just make
an appointment with your primary care practitioner (PCP).

Statistically, approximately 1% of nodules in the neck characterize detectable warning signs.
But, when the suspicious lump is cancerous, it will spread if not
detected. In this event, several symptoms of thyroid cancer become more
evident:

• Hoarseness – however, various medical conditions can cause hoarseness, for example, Laryngitis or overusing your voice.
• Swollen lymph nodes in neck.
• Pain – in neck or throat areas that lingers.
• Tightness – in throat.
• Difficulties with breathing and/or swallowing.

As a thyroid tumor grows larger, it can cause a persistent cough. Be
mindful that if you detect a difference in the shape or size of your
tumor and/or notice suspicious symptoms we’ve laid-out, it’s time to
contact your PCP.