Nodules - levels are normal

[tolsen]

Hi, I was told last week that I have 4 nuldes on my right thyroid.  I had my levels checked -T3,T4, and TSH. All came back normal.  I go for a Thyroid scan w/uptake today.  I am gaining weight like crazy and this started about 6 months ago, I am always tired, no matter how much sleep I get.  Now the nodules, I did some research but I am still uncertain.  Should I be nervous about cancer?  What are the percentage of them being cancer?  If my levels are normal, why am I feeling like I am, when I am doing nothing different?  Please help me understand.

[Kic]

Yes, you should see another doctor. I have been hyp and hyper. I have a thyroid nodule that the doctors say is not a problem. Yes, the blood tests can come back normal and still be a problem. I have read that a nodule can cause symptoms.

[tolsen]

Thank you for responding back to me.  I had an ultrasound done and now is the scan.  Is it possible to have thyroid problems although the blood tests are normal?  Should I see another doctor?

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

If the blood tests are normal, then the thyroid/nodules are not likely causing the weight gain/fatigue -- unfortunately those two symptoms are among the most common even in non-thyroid patients.

Nodules have about a 5-10% chance of cancer.  Ultrasound with possible biopsy is the next step, the I-123 scan will not likely add much to the evaluation at this point according to new guidelines.

[kimmi292]

I had multiple nodules on the left lobe of my thyroid and a large goiter making it very difficult to swallow. I had a partial Thyroid Lobectomy (removal of the left side of the thyroid), 2 years ago. They did a biopsy immediately after removal and they were all benign. My blood work was all normal and I didnt have any of the thyroid deseases. I've done so much reading ont his subject and it seems Thyroid nodules are almost always benign. I feel for you and your frustrations. I had a new ultrasound last week and was told by my Doctor I had to follow up with my surgeon cause the ultrasound showed a mass on the left side. I cannot see him till Tuesday, so now I wait with confusing and frustration again as I did 2 years ago. Thank God theres no goiter in the middle of my throat this time, that was scary. I dont understand how I could have a mass on the left side when thats the side that they took out. I really hope all goes well for you.

[kathyMMM]

Your symptoms could be related to your thyroid medication.  On Synthroid or another T4, huh?  Google "side effects of Synthroid" on the internet and why T4 alone does not work.  And also look up why Synthroid was turned down by the FDA over & over again & not approved until 2002.  Then look up why MANY doctors say T3-T4 remedies are best!  Time for us PATIENTS to become informed since the medical profession doesn't seem to be.

[tolsen]

I had posted a previous question regarding my results.  My doctor seems to think that all of the results are normal.  Although the tech that gave me the uptake with a result of 46% told me that this was high, the doctor didn't not comment on it.  My TSH is .642, T3 is  136 T4 is 9.5, and FT4 is 1.46.  I understand that they are in the "normal" range.  But, the TSH is on the very low end of normal and the T4 is and FT4 is on the higher end.  With the uptake at 46%, with a norm of 25-35%, I am not understanding this.  I have the classic symptoms of hypo, the weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, thinning hair, but my doctor is certain that my thyroid is functioning OK!  I do have the 4 small nodules, but they are functioning, according to the dcotro of what he read off the scan.  I need some help understanding this.  I am 40years old and never had problems like I do now, those listed above.  

Dr. Lupo, could you please give me some advise on your thoughts?  I have read your other comments to others and I am in need of some good advice.    
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[tolsen]

also, my T3 with uptake was 46%.

I am confused.

[tolsen]

Thank you.  I just got my blood results in hand.  TSH - .642, T4 9.5 , FT4 1.46, T3 136.  I realize these are within the range, but - TSH is on the low normal and the FT4 is on the high end and well as the T4.  The T3 is not a concern.  Should I be concerned with these levels with my syptoms I have?