Symptoms of Thyroid Disease?

I'm a 30 year old female, and in excellent health.  However, for the last 2 weeks I have seen bumps(like nodules)form on my head and neck.  I have one large bump on the back of my head(lower base of skull, approx. size of a quarter and hard, two smaller lumps below that(round and smooth, size of dimes), a larger lump behind the ear(size of a nickel, not as hard as others), and one on the neck(which is small but sensitive when touched).  I saw a physician at a clinic and was given antibiotics.  I was told I had an infection in my glands.  I'm not experiencing any "cold" symptoms, but I am experiencing the following symptoms:
  1.  Dry mouth
  2.  mild constipation
  3.  cold hands and cold feet
  4.  throat is a bit dry and feels like a bit "full".  Almost have difficulty swallowing.
  5.  lumps don't seem to be getting smaller or going away with  antibiotics.

I would love some insight into the possibilities of this.  I have researched where my thyroid gland is etc. and the lumps def. fall exactly were the glands are, so that is not in question.  I'm not sure if I should go to see someone in Internal Medicine, or I'm just jumping the gun and it will go away.  Thanks for your time and any possible insight.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It is possible that the bumps are enlarged lymph nodes - observing them for several weeks after a course of antibiotics is a reasonable option.  

If they still don't go away, you may want to consider an ENT referral to evaluate for a possible biopsy.  This would give a more definitive diagnosis.

Regarding thyroid conditions - it can certainly cause dry mouth, cold hands/feet, and constipation.  The easist thing to do would be to obtain a TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) test, to screen for hyper or hypo thyroidism.  If your physician does not agree, you may want to consider a second opinion.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[ozark]

have you been checked for mono? do you have any scratches or sores on your scalp?

[MelissaKay]

Hello.  Thanks for your comment. I don't have any sores on my scalp. Actually, all of the lumps/bumps are quite solid and they don't hurt except for the one on my neck is a little tender.  You'd never know I had these lumps unless you looked behind my ear and pulled my hair apart. I forgot to add that I'm also losing quite a bit of weight and I don't have my appetite anymore.  Do you have an idea what the specific symptoms of mono are?  I appreciate any insight. Thanks again.  MelissaKay