Thyroid ultrasonography is a non-surgical imaging technique that allows for a detailed examination of the thyroid gland. In this method, high-frequency sound waves are used to evaluate the structure, size, and characteristics of nodules in the thyroid gland. Thyroid ultrasound is commonly used as a diagnostic method for detecting and monitoring abnormalities in the thyroid gland.
How Is a Thyroid Ultrasound Conducted?
A thyroid ultrasound is a safe medical examination that allows for the visualization of the thyroid gland, using high-frequency sound waves. During the examination, the patient lies in a supine position with the neck prepared to remain exposed. The ultrasound device is placed over the thyroid area by applying gel, and a specialist examines details such as the structure, size, and presence of nodules in the thyroid gland.
The procedure proceeds as follows:
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The patient is placed in a supine position with the neck slightly extended backwards.
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A special gel is applied to the neck area to facilitate the contact of the ultrasound probe with the skin.
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The thyroid gland is examined from different angles with the ultrasound probe, and evaluations are made based on the images on the screen.
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This procedure, which lasts approximately 5-10 minutes, is completely painless and involves no radiation.
What Are Thyroid Symptoms?
Dysfunctions in the thyroid gland can lead to various symptoms when hormone production decreases (hypothyroidism) or increases (hyperthyroidism). The symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism differ from each other.
In the case of hypothyroidism, a feeling of fatigue may occur due to a decreased metabolic rate in the body. Additionally, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, increased sensitivity to cold, and hair loss are common associated symptoms.
In the case of hyperthyroidism, symptoms such as rapid heart rate, excessive sweating, nervousness, tremor, weight loss, and sleep problems may occur due to the acceleration of metabolism.
In cases of nodules and goiter, which are structural disorders of the thyroid, swelling in the neck may be observed. These structural problems can often lead to difficulty swallowing and a feeling of pressure in the throat.
If any one or several of these symptoms are noticed, it is recommended to perform detailed examinations such as thyroid function tests and ultrasound. These tests can assess the operation of the thyroid gland and determine appropriate treatment methods.
What Are the Symptoms of a Thyroid Nodule?
Thyroid nodules are masses that become prominent in the thyroid gland and, although mostly benign, may require examination concerning thyroid cancer in some cases.
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Swelling or mass detected in the neck
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Difficulty swallowing
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Hoarseness
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Feeling of fullness and pressure in the throat
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Some nodules are detected only during an ultrasound without causing symptoms.
Thyroid ultrasound plays an important role in visualizing the size, shape, and internal structure of these nodules in detail, helping to determine the need for a biopsy if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a thyroid ultrasound take?
Since it is non-invasive, no anesthesia is needed, and it is typically completed in 15-20 minutes.
Do I need to be fasting for a thyroid ultrasound?
In most cases, there is no need to fast before a thyroid ultrasound. However, if other tests are to be conducted simultaneously, the physician will provide necessary preparation information in advance.
Do thyroid nodules always cause symptoms?
No, some thyroid nodules progress silently and are only detected during an ultrasound examination. Nodules without symptoms may also require regular monitoring.
Can a cancer diagnosis be made with a thyroid ultrasound?
Ultrasound shows the structure of nodules in detail, and if there are suspicious features, a biopsy is recommended. A definitive cancer diagnosis can only be made through pathological examination.