Diagnosis and Prevention for Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid disease can be any one of the conditions that affect the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces a hormone known as thyroxine which regulates the metabolic functions of the body and aids in performing normal bodily functions. An imbalance in thyroid hormone levels can cause several complications. Thyroid hormone deficiency causes hypothyroidism, and elevated levels of thyroid hormones cause hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland may also develop cancer, which is a potentially lethal disease. Thyroid disease and its causes, symptoms, and types are a subject of medical research. With proper medical care, these conditions can be successfully treated. How is thyroid disease diagnosed? Depending on which thyroid disease you are affected by, the doctor will recommend tests and screening procedures based on clinical examination and physical tests. Some of the common diagnostic procedures are: Physical examination This involves the physician checking your neck for lumps or abnormalities in the thyroid structure. Your reflexes may also be tested since slow reaction speed often indicates hypothyroidism. Your blood pressure and heart rates may be measured as a part of the standard procedure. If you are visibly overweight, the doctor might measure your weight and discuss diet. Other factors that are examined include body temperature, hair volume, and texture, skin texture, eyes, among others.