A thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging procedure that is commonly used to assess the thyroid gland and surrounding structures. Here are some of the key uses and information about how to prepare for and undergo a thyroid ultrasound:
Uses for a Thyroid Ultrasound:
- Assessing Thyroid Function: A thyroid ultrasound may be ordered if thyroid function tests show abnormalities. It can help evaluate the size, shape, and overall health of the thyroid gland.
- Detecting Thyroid Nodules or Growths: If your doctor feels a growth on your thyroid during a physical examination, an ultrasound can provide detailed images to assess the nature of the growth. It helps determine whether the growth is a benign nodule or potentially cancerous.
- Evaluating Thyroid Activity: Ultrasound can be used to assess whether the thyroid gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism).
- General Health Assessment: In some cases, a thyroid ultrasound may be part of an overall physical exam. Ultrasounds can provide high-resolution images of organs, aiding doctors in assessing general health.
- Investigating Swelling, Pain, or Infections: If you have abnormal swelling, pain, or signs of infection in the neck area, a thyroid ultrasound can help uncover underlying conditions responsible for these symptoms.
- Guiding Thyroid Biopsy: If a doctor needs to perform a biopsy of the thyroid or surrounding tissues to investigate potential diseases or cancer, an ultrasound can guide the procedure, ensuring precise targeting of the area of concern.
Preparing for a Thyroid Ultrasound:
- Before the test, it's advisable to remove necklaces and accessories that could obstruct the ultrasound examination of your throat.
Procedure:
- You will be asked to remove your shirt and lie on your back on an examination table. In some cases, you might be able to sit upright during the ultrasound.
- The ultrasound technician will place a pillow or pad under the back of your neck to tilt your head back and expose your throat. While this position may be somewhat uncomfortable, it is not typically painful.
- The technician will apply a gel to your throat, which helps the ultrasound probe (transducer) glide smoothly over your skin. The gel may initially feel cold but will warm up upon contact with your skin.
- The transducer is then moved back and forth over the area where your thyroid is located. This process should not be painful. If you experience any discomfort, communicate with the technician.
- The images generated during the ultrasound will be visible on a screen. These images are used to ensure that the radiologist has a clear view of your thyroid and its surrounding structures for evaluation.
- It's important to note that ultrasound technicians are not allowed to diagnose or explain the ultrasound results. This task is typically reserved for the radiologist or your healthcare provider.
- The radiologist will examine the images, and you can expect to receive the ultrasound report within 24 to 48 hours.
Risks and Resumption of Activities:
- A thyroid ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive procedure, and there are no associated risks.
- You can typically resume your normal activities immediately after the ultrasound is complete.