As reported in 2011, a lump on my thyroid was discovered. Since then, I have had 3 fine needle aspirations, biopsies, and an ultrasound. The last exam being the ultrasound. You see, from my annual physical exam in 2013-April/May, I noticed my neck area was looking rather large. I felt my thyroid and the lump that is there felt larger and seemed to be more visible to me. I didn't immediately react, but just noticed it with each view of myself in the mirror. After a few weeks, I finally make an appointment with my doctor to further discuss. After her exexamination, she said it didn't seem to have grown based upon measurement, but I disagreed given it looked like I have an atom's apple growing. I wanted her to be clear,' I am a full-fledge woman and don't want to be a man!' I shouldn't have a visible lump in my neck/throat area! I insisted that I see a specialist to make sure all is well.
I see an Ears, Nose, Throat doctor, Dr. Kim who determines the lump feels rather large to the touch and wants me to get an ultrasound and then a guided fine needle aspiration. Dr. Kim wanted to know the exact areas she took samples for the biopsy. After this painful procedure all is well. There is no major concern and this something I will have to monitor. Because the lump on my thyroid is kind of big, swallowing is a bit challenging, but not enough to warrant surgery.
I have an excellent rapport with my primary care doctor. She provides great care and can usually calm my nerves when I'm freaked about something. However, I am glad I didn't easily accept her diagnosis that the lump is fine, but that I actually checked it out. At tbe end of the day, I knew something wasn't right and I am glad I took action for confirmation.
