Nodule Question

[ScaredOfDisease]

Ok, i had some questions earlier, but had a few more.

First I will say, I have a Dr. appointment on Thursday. But I am really worried. So until then, hopefully I can get some info.

First, are thyroid nodules usually near the surface? Or deeper? Or both? The bump I feel is just a tint bit under, and to the side of my adams apple. It feels very very small. To the point I Think I may have felt it in the past and paid no attention. But now that I am ready to get married, I am noticing more now. Im not sure.

Its so close to the surface, that even though it feels so tiny, when I tilt my head back, you can still see it. But still, it feels very tiny, and you can only see it if the light shines on it right.

Its also so small that my Mom looked and tried feeling it, and she couldnt feel or see anything.

So my last question is, I read something about these nodules are common, and something like 50% of people will get 1. Can a Dr. sometimes feel it and know its nothing? Or do they just about always order tests? I have no insurance, so I am prayinge he can feel it and know its nothing.

Are there lymp nodes just a tad lower than the adams apple and slightly to the side? Could it be that?

Hope someone can help me. And I will keep you all updated on what my Dr does say on Thursday. Thank you.

[ScaredOfDisease]

So in the area of the adams apple, just barelt below, and to the side, its normally a thyroid nodule?

Im pretty sure ive felt it in the past and didnt put too much thought into it. But for some reason I just now started worrying.

Strange thing is, it doesnt feel round. Almost feels longer than wide. Like I thought maybe it was a small part of a tendon or something pushin out some. But after feelin it I noticed it was a tiny bump. But like I said, its very small.

[vivfla]

I have found one as well.  I have had symptoms of hypo thyroid.  

[worriedinmd]

I'm not sure where you live, but in many parts of the U.S. there are places that offer services on a sliding scale. If you aren't sure about your region, and don't mind telling me where you live, I can do some quick research for you. I'm home post-op all week, so I'd love to have something to keep me busy.

- viv

[dscoochie]

I'm sure your doctor will, at the very least, order an ultrasound.  I'm sorry that you have no insurance.  Is there a presidential candidate that is pro universal health care? I must admit, its nice not to have to worry about money where your health is concerned here in Canada, but we do get taxed to the maximum!!

I know its hard, but try not to worry.  Nodules, as you have found out, are VERY common, and some people dont even know they have one and it is accidentally found during other tests!  

Think of it as a great thing that you are aware of your body and have found "it" very early.  It may be nothing.

Let us know how it goes on Thursday.

Thinking of you.

[stella5349]

Nodules can grow anywhere on the thyroid = or for that matter anywhere in the body - lymph nodes can be effected from nodules too depending on the nodule itself.  I have a nodule that is not visable and very deep to the left between my collar bone and esphogus. Mine was located on a ultra sound.  A doctor (or most of them) will not feel comfortable giving you any Dx (if it is a thyroid nodule) without running at least an Ultra Sound to see what actual type of nodule it is ( cystic or solid) for starters.

I read your previous post on no insurance - and that can be an issue. I believe for your health - if your physician feels he needs to run additional tests you need to put the insurance thing aside and consider dealing with that later. It is YOUR health and you need to find out what going on - at least for peace of mind. You are also in somewhat of an advantage to be able to negotaiate (gosh I miss spell check!) cost - since you are uninsured.

Yes nodules are common and increase as you age.  and yes - on rare occassions - a doctor may feel the lump and be able to tell something - i.e. calcium deposits and swollen lymph nodes from an infection. If they speculate anything else though - you will need tests.

[rachael0406]

I think that I have one of those nodules too.  its really small, at first my husband didn't see or feel it, but then I went into the bathroom to show him again then he finally saw it.  I am going to the doctors in a few weeks and I plan on talking to my endo about it, I can let you know what he says if you have not heard anything yet.  I can't even take a good picture of it when I try to swallow water to make it stand out more.  Just email me if you want me to let you know if my doctor says anything.

Good Luck.