Multinodular Goiter & hypothyroidism

[iowamomto4]

I have been treated exactly a year with hypothyroidism, when I was initially treated the doctor felt a small goiter, I have been on 100mcg of levothyroxine. In October I started feeling very tender in my throat, tender to swallow and a feeling that there was something in my throat, also getting pains in my ears. My doctor ordered a u/s of my thyroid that showed a multinodular goiter with no dominant nodules. My levels were all considered normal. Why would my goiter be growing if my levels have been normal? My doctor sent my u/s to an endocrinologist at the University of Iowa Hospitals, which they just read the u/s films and reported to her what the radiologist said and that no further test should be done, and no action. This seems odd to me, I still have the tenderness and all other symptoms, I do not know exact dimensions of my nodules though I believe my doctor said between 1 and 4.5 cm. What should I do?? I am so confused. Thank you Lisa

[mathriley]

I just had a total thyroidectomy my original the ultra sound showed a 1.9 cm nodule and 3 small ones.  The large nodule was biopsied and Hurtle cess were found.  I think a biopsy is definately something that you should be requesting when you go for the second opinion.

[utahmomma]

Did the ultrasound show any displacement of the trachea or esophagus?  Is the goiter compressing any vascular structures or nerves?

Based on what you have said you basically have a few options.

First of all getting another professional opinion is never a bad thing.

Second there are basically two courses of action you can take:  continue with what you are doing and your medical advice or opt to have the thyroid removed.  The 4.5cm nodule is quite large - you may need additional testing/imaging.

Sounds like another medical opinion (or two) wouldn't hurt.

Hang in there - thyroid disorders are maddening but we are here for you.