Thyroid Disease and Cancer
Thyroid disease is extremely common and can have a wide variety of symptoms. Although many treatments are medical, some patients still require the expertise of a surgeon.
Definition of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
Any pathologic process that impacts the thyroid gland is defined as thyroid disease. If the process involves abnormal cell growth, the disease is termed cancer.
Anatomy of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
The thyroid gland is shaped like a butterfly and resides in the lower part of the neck. If there is thyroid disease, people may notice that they have a goiter or a swollen lump in the middle of their neck. This deserves further medical evaluation.
Causes of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
There are numerous causes of thyroid disease. Some forms of thyroid cancer are hereditary. Autoimmune conditions can cause inflammation of the thyroid. Lack of iodine consumption can also lead to thyroid disease.
Symptoms of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
The symptoms of thyroid disease will be markedly different depending on whether or not the patient is hypothyroid or hyperthyroid. Symptoms include:
Hypothyroidism
- Fatigue
- Cold
- Muscle aches and pains
- Dry, cracked skin
- Low heart rate
- Weight gain
Hyperthyroidism
- Fever
- Nervousness
- Trouble sleeping
- Rapid heart rate
- Weight loss
- Sweating
Diagnosis of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
The diagnosis will always start with a history and a physical exam. The physician will order blood tests looking at different hormone levels to aid in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The physician may order imaging of the thyroid gland to look for tumors within the gland. Sometimes a biopsy is performed with a small needle to determine the diagnosis.
Prevention of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
Patients should ensure they eat an adequate amount of iodine. Most people within the United States use iodinated salt so this is rarely a problem. However, in developing countries, a lack of iodine can lead to significant disease.
Am I At Risk for Thyroid Disease and Cancer?
Patients with autoimmune diseases, a family history of thyroid disease, or a family history of thyroid cancer are at risk for thyroid disease themselves.
Treatment of Thyroid Disease and Cancer
While most patients do well with medical therapy, surgical excision is sometimes needed. Depending on the issue, part of the thyroid or its entirety will be removed. Patients with a total thyroidectomy will require lifelong medication for thyroid hormone replacement. Some patients with thyroid cancer require medical therapy after the surgery to control any remnants of the disease.
To learn more about treatment procedures for this condition please visit the following: Procedures We Do
Thyroid disease and cancer is a serious and sensitive situation that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Thyroid disease and cancer can have serious consequences which deserves the attention of a skillful general surgeon. Outstanding surgeons like Dr. Jenna Kazil spend years training and treating thyroid disease and cancer. Patients in need of a partial or total thyroidectomy on Florida’s West Coast should locate the best general surgeon who has the surgical skills necessary to perform these serious surgical operations for the benefit of their patients. Dr. Jenna Kazil is an admirable general surgeon who has developed an impressive track record of successful partial or total thyroidectomy cases. Dr. Kazil understands the important circumstances that drive the treatment with the accuracy and compassion that everyone expects from a distinguished general surgeon. Jenna Kazil, MD, FACS, RPVI is an exceptional surgical specialist working as a vascular and general surgeon seeing patients from South Sarasota to East Desoto and Hardee to North Hillsborough to West Manatee and Pinellas counties. Patients requiring a partial or total thyroidectomy should contact Dr. Kazil at the Florida Surgical Clinic located in Bradenton, FL today to schedule an appointment with the best-experienced doctor that possesses a unique blend of compassionate care and expert skills.
