InsightsGeek.com | Discover New Insights

Home - Health & Personal Care - Everything You Need To Know About Thyroid Cancer

Everything you need to know about thyroid cancer

The thyroid is a gland that is located at the bottom of the neck, right below the Adam’s apple. The gland is responsible for releasing hormones that are important to regulate blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and body weight. When cancer occurs in thyroid cells, it is referred to as thyroid cancer. Initially, thyroid cancer might not show any symptoms, but as the condition progresses, it can cause swelling and pain in the neck.

In most cases, with timely treatment, thyroid cancer can be cured.

What is thyroid and thyroid cancer?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is responsible for the production of the thyroid hormone. This hormone has a lot of important functions to perform, and one of them is regulating the metabolism of the body. The gland contains parafollicular cells that produce the thyroid hormone.

When the production of the hormone is in excess, it is known as hyperthyroidism. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism include intolerance towards heat, anxiety, loss in body weight, and sweating.

When the production of the thyroid hormone is too little, the condition is known as hypothyroidism. The symptoms include intolerance towards cold, gain in body weight, and thinning of hair.

The most common endocrine cancer, thyroid cancer, affects over 20,000 people in the country each year. However, that makes for only 1% of the total new cancers diagnosed in the country.

When there is a mutation in the DNA, which is spontaneous or a result of any exposure to toxic substances, it causes alterations of healthy thyroid cells. These changes lead to the rapid multiplication of the cells and cause any type of cells present in the thyroid gland to mutate and turn cancerous.

Reports from the National Cancer Institute have shown that the cases of thyroid cancer have increased over the last 30 years. However, there hasn’t been any change in the number of deaths that have occurred due to thyroid cancer.

Signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer

The most common signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer is a nodule or a lump in the part of the neck where the thyroid gland is located. The lump does not cause any pain and in most cases, it is found accidentally. In the majority of these cases, the thyroid gland is functioning properly when the lump is discovered. Patients show no signs or symptoms of thyroid cancer at this stage usually.

When the tumor has grown large enough, it starts affecting the adjoining and nearby parts as well. This can lead to problems such as dysphagia or problems with swallowing. This happens when the tumor starts to put pressure on the esophagus. However, though painful, this is highly uncommon.

In the case of thyroid cancer involving the laryngeal nerve, which regulates vocal cords, the patient might experience hoarseness. This happens due to paralysis of the vocal cords. Lumps in the neck are more commonly found in children. Usually, these lumps are not found in the thyroid gland. Except for swelling of the lymph nodes, which often leads to an ear infection or pharyngitis, no other kind of lump formations should be taken lightly.

Different types of thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is not as common as other types of cancer. It falls on the 10th position in the list of most common types of cancer diagnosed in the country. Thyroid cancer is categorized based on the appearance of the cancer cells. There are well-differentiated and undifferentiated cancerous cells found in thyroid cancer patients. While well-differentiated cells are cancerous cells that look like healthy cells and multiply at a slow rate, undifferentiated cells are found to be growing at a rapid rate.

The various types of thyroid cancer are:

Papillary thyroid cancer

In this type, well-differentiated cancer cells are found. This is the most common type of thyroid cancer. It is mostly seen in women who are in their childbearing years. This type of cancer is less aggressive, which means it does not spread quickly. It is also easily treatable.

Medullary thyroid cancer

This is another type of thyroid cancer with well-differentiated cancer cells. In some cases of this type of cancer, a genetic component is found. This makes medullary thyroid cancer a part of endocrine gland cancer-related syndrome. This type of cancer usually begins in cells that are non-thyroid and are located in the thyroid gland. This has a different treatment approach as compared to other thyroid cancer types.

Follicular thyroid cancer

This type of thyroid cancer usually spreads and has chances of recurring. Hurthle Cell Cancer is an advanced type of follicular thyroid cancer. Additionally, Follicular thyroid cancer is more prevalent in people above 50 years of age.

Anaplastic thyroid cancer

This is the most aggressive and rare type of thyroid cancer. Although it is not common, it can be extremely difficult to cure.

Thyroid lymphoma

Another rare form of thyroid cancer that starts in the immune cells that are present in the thyroid gland.

Causes of thyroid cancer

The exact cause of the condition is yet to be known. However, there are certain factors that can be linked to the increased risk of developing thyroid cancer. But even when a person is exposed to these risk factors, it cannot be known for sure if the person will develop thyroid cancer. Patients who do not have any risk factors can also develop thyroid cancer.

Risk factors associated with thyroid cancer

Usually, single thyroid lumps or nodules are non-cancerous. However, if these lumps occur in people who are younger than 30 or above 60 years of age, the chances of thyroid cancer can increase. Also, a single lump found in males has more chances of being cancerous than in women. If a lump is growing aggressively in size, it has a higher chance of being cancerous. This is also a dangerous sign.

Imaging tests such as CT scans and X-rays done on the neck do expose the part of the body to small amounts of radiation. However, these haven’t been found to be the cause for this condition yet. But it is still important to limit exposure to radiation.

Lack of iodine in the diet can also become a cause of thyroid cancer. But this might not be a problem in developed countries since iodine is used as food additives here, reducing the chances of developing thyroid cancer. Moreover, when the diet is low in iodine levels, it can increase the chances of thyroid cancer induced by radiation. Besides, there can also be a link between diabetes that is beyond control and increased chances of developing thyroid cancer.

Kids who have been exposed to radiation around the neck area can also be at a greater risk of developing thyroid cancer. There have been studies that have found that people who were undergoing radiation treatment 50-60 years back, when the ill effects of radiation were not completely known, are now highly susceptible to developing thyroid cancer.

How is thyroid cancer diagnosed?

The presence of thyroid cancer can be identified through a physical examination or lab tests. During a physical examination, the presence of a small or big lump in the neck area can be revealed. In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes can also be identified. There are various laboratory tests that can be conducted for the diagnosis of thyroid cancer. These include the following:

Thyroid scan
Thyroid function tests
An ultrasound
Laryngoscopy
Test to check the level of phosphorus in the blood
Thyroid biopsy
Test to check the level of calcium in the blood
Test to check the level of calcitonin in the blood

Treatment options for thyroid cancer

The treatment course for thyroid cancer most commonly involves surgery to get rid of the tumor. There are a few options available for the patient, and which one is picked will depend on the clinical diagnosis of the patient.

The options include:

Lobectomy

The thyroid gland consists of two lobes that are joined with each other in the middle with isthmus – a tissue bridge made of fibers. In cases where the tumor is only limited to a small area, the surgery is done to remove the lobe that has been affected.

Total thyroidectomy

One of the most common surgical procedures to treat thyroid cancer, a total thyroidectomy is done to remove the complete thyroid gland. The surgery is also done to ensure that cancer does not occur again.

Lymph node resection

In many cases, cancer can affect the lymph nodes. In such cases, the lymph nodes are removed with the help of this surgery. Which lymph nodes have been affected can only be identified during the surgery.

Thyroid hormone replacement

When the gland is removed surgically, the body will not be producing thyroid hormone anymore. Therefore, thyroid hormone replacement will be required. The patient will have to undergo regular blood tests to keep track of thyroid hormones available in the body for proper functioning. Patients who have undergone thyroidectomy will need to be on thyroid hormone replacement treatment life-long.

Radioactive iodine

Thyroid tissue is responsible for absorbing iodine. Once a thyroidectomy is conducted, radioiodine may be given to the patient to make sure if any part of thyroid tissue is remaining it can be destroyed. The need to use this treatment will depend on how much the cancer has spread and how much thyroid-stimulating hormone levels are present.

Radiation therapy

In cases where the tumor has not absorbed iodine, radiation therapy can be given instead of radioactive iodine. If iodine has been absorbed by the tissue or not, it can only be known through radioactive iodine uptake tests, which are performed before surgery.

Chemotherapy

Although chemotherapy is not a common treatment option for thyroid cancer, in some cases it can be used when the patient does not respond to any other treatment options.

Prevention of thyroid cancer

Since the exact cause of thyroid cancer isn’t known yet, the ways to prevent it are yet to be known.

One of the types of thyroid cancer, medullary thyroid cancer is genetic. If anyone in the family has suffered or suffers from thyroid cancer, one must consult their doctor. Their physician can recommend a genetic counselor, who will help one know their chances of developing thyroid cancer.

People exposed to nuclear radiation, such as those who reside near nuclear power plants, have a higher chance of developing thyroid cancer as compared to people who do not live nearby. It is important that one consults their doctor and takes potassium iodide pills if one is exposed to nuclear radiation. Also, one should never miss their annual check-ups and consult their doctor if one has been experiencing even the slightest of symptoms. This will help one ensure that if there is any complication, it can be identified and treated at an early stage.

Outlook for patients and cancer recurrence

When thyroid cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, it can be easily treated. Such patients respond better towards the treatment and usually enter the remission phase. Also, there are several types of thyroid cancers that are more recurrent than others. Even after a person goes into remission, it is important to keep going for regular appointments with the doctor. These checkups can be taking place lifelong since the doctor will have to check for any signs of cancer recurring. Routine checkups are also important to ensure that the correct amount of thyroid replacement hormones are received by the patient. The recurrence of thyroid cancer largely depends on how aggressively it has spread. If the spread is limited just to the thyroid gland, then the chances of recurrence reduce. On the other hand, if the cancer has spread and affected adjoining as well as distant body parts, then the chances of recurrence increases.

Disclaimer:

The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.

A comprehensive guide to help manage asthma

Effective Control of Diabetes with Apple Cider Vinegar

Latest Articles

The Causes And Symptoms Of Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors

The causes and symptoms of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors The neuroendocrine system can be described as a network of glands producing hormones that are carried into the bloodstream. There are different roles that these hormones play in the human body. The carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor is a very rare tumor that shows up in the cells of the neuroendocrine system. Around 80% of these tumors grow in the small bowel and the appendix. However, they can even grow in the lungs, pancreas, ovaries, stomach, testicles, and kidneys. These tumors develop at varied rates, and they are usually slow at developing. They might develop over several months and even years. Nevertheless, there are some tumors that tend to be highly aggressive. They can spread very quickly to other parts of the human body and can even result in serious issues. What are the causes of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? Experts are still not aware of the main causes of neuroendocrine tumors. However, there are certain conditions that might make you a victim of these tumors. These are called risk factors, and they are situations and diseases that you cannot control. Some of the most common causes of neuroendocrine tumors are as listed: Some diseases that are caused due to family history or genes passed to an individual through their family can increase their chances of having a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor. Individuals with multiple endocrine neoplasia disease can be the victims of carcinoid tumors. This is a disease where tumors form in the cells, making hormones or chemicals that have a major effect on the actions of the body, such as sex drive, mood, and hair growth. Your age can have an effect on your chances of suffering from carcinoid tumors. There are certain NETs that have an effect on people of specific ages. The gender of an individual also has an effect on the risk for certain NETs. However, women have an increased chance of suffering from these tumors. The race of a person also has an effect on their chances of suffering from carcinoid tumors. The immune system in the body is its defense against all kinds of germs. Diseases or conditions that affect the immune system, such as organ transplant and HIV/AIDS, can increase the chances of neuroendocrine tumors in individuals. Excessive sun exposure can also result in neuroendocrine tumors. This is because the sun gives off ultraviolet rays that damage the skin DNA. This can result in the growth of cells in an uncontrolled manner, resulting in cancer. Studies have proved that smoking can also increase the chances of neuroendocrine tumors in people. What are the symptoms of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? Neuroendocrine tumors are generally diagnosed in people between the ages of 50 and 60. People with these tumors might experience certain symptoms, or they might not have any signs or changes in their body. The symptoms of neuroendocrine tumors include the following: Anxiety attacks High blood pressure Headaches A fever Rapid pulse Clammy skin Sweating Vomiting Nausea Heart palpitations Weight loss Flushing Severe diarrhea Wheezing Increased heart rate Appetite loss Sudden changes in blood pressure Always keep in mind that neuroendocrine tumors are rare and therefore the above-mentioned symptoms might be the result of other medical conditions. Nevertheless, it is important to consult a doctor if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks. What is the prognosis for carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? If you go through carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor prognosis, you will be able to find that these tumors are either malignant or benign. The benign tumors tend to be small and can easily be removed completely, not to come back again. There are no symptoms produced if you are suffering from benign carcinoid tumors. The cells from these tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. The malignant or cancerous carcinoid tumors are large and can damage organs and tissues close to them. The cells of these tumors can easily break and enter the lymphatic system and the bloodstream to form new tumors. How can carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors be prevented? There is no way of preventing these tumors at present. However, quitting or not starting to smoke might reduce the risk of these tumors. It is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet and a good lifestyle in order to prevent such tumors.

An Overview Of Cla Safflower Oil

An overview of CLA safflower oil CLA stands for conjugated linoleic acid. It is high in good fats, i.e., monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. According to the National Institutes of Health, typically, CLA is found in foods like beef and dairy. However, it can also be found in small quantities in vegetable oils. Safflower oil is a oil produced from the seeds of a safflower plant; thus, it is a vegetable oil. Safflower plant is about 30 to 150 cm in height and each branch of the plant has about one to five flower heads with 15-20 seeds per head from which the oil is extracted. The plant is found in Kazakhstan as well as India, the USA, Mexico, and Argentina. Below is some information about CLA safflower oil. What are the advantages of using CLA safflower oil? The CLA safflower oil is a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, namely, polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats. These fats, commonly known as good fats, are required by the body to function well. The CLA safflower oil helps in improving memory and aids hormone regulation. This oil allows the body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin K, E, D, and A. CLA safflower oil reduces inflammation in the body and also improves general health. It is a good way to regulate blood sugar levels in the body. Regular intake of CLA safflower oil improves blood cholesterol levels, thereby, reducing the chances of any kind of heart diseases. It contains vitamin E, which is great for skin issues like dry skin or even inflamed skin. However, you must perform a patch test before applying the oil all over the skin. How do you use CLA safflower oil in diet? The moderate use of safflower oil in your food will improve your metabolic rate, thereby, reducing your weight. The proportion of safflower oil intake would be dependent on weight-loss calorie requirement. For instance, a woman who needs to have 1200 calories daily would need 4 teaspoons of the CLA safflower oil. Men who are on a diet and need to consume 1600 calories would need 5 teaspoons of it. What are the side effects of CLA safflower oil? Most often people do not face any side effects from this oil if it is consumed or applied in recommended proportions. CLA safflower oil thins the blood so it could slow down clotting and could increase the chances of bleeding for those who have bleeding disorders or are undergoing some sort of surgery. People allergic to ragweed or pollen should not consume this oil as it could lead to an allergic reaction. Pregnant women should avoid it. Which are the best safflower oils of the year? As per CLA safflower oil reviews, the following brands have made the list of favorites among consumers this year: Renewalize Organic Safflower Oil – This is a USDA-certified brand and it is high in oleic acid. Renewalize Organic Safflower Oil is extracted using the cold pressed method that allows it to have a high amount of oleic acid, which is great for hair growth. Hollywood Safflower Oil – This is a great oil for cooking. It is the best when it comes to light heat cooking. The Hollywood Safflower Oil is available in a pack of one, three, or twelve, and it works well for pasta and as a drizzle over appetizers. It is good for cake mixes as well. Eden Unrefined – This brand of CLA safflower oil is organic and kosher, and it only has safflower oil. It works well for acne-prone skin and for cooking too. Dr. Adorable One Gallon – If you want to use CLA safflower oil especially for body massages, then this brand works beautifully as it blends well. You can take a generous quantity and apply it all over the body. It has no noticeable smell. However, this oil should be only used for external purposes. Spectrum Naturals High Heat – This brand produces the perfect CLA safflower oil for cooking. It has a smooth flavor that is ideal for cooking. The Spectrum Naturals High Heat does not have any artificial coloring, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and other common allergens. It is much lighter than other oils, such as olive oil.

Top 10 Health Benefits Of Safflower Oil

Top 10 health benefits of safflower oil Safflower oil is an oil that is extracted from the seeds of the safflower. CLA stands for conjugated linoleic acid. CLA is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. The CLA safflower oil has a number of health benefits; hence, it is being used as medicine by many people. CLA safflower oil can be used for treating a number of health issues and it is also used as a cooking oil. Continue reading if you wish to know more about the amazing health benefits of safflower oil, its side effects, and more. What are the health benefits of safflower oil? It is believed that safflower oil helps in boosting the immune system. This oil has properties that can protect the body from any kind of infections and it is considered to boost immune health. The CLA safflower oil is good for your heart’s health. When you are having heart-related health issues, your doctor will usually suggest you maintain a balanced diet, and it is important to keep it natural. Safflower oil is a natural oil that has omega-6 fatty acids, which are good for a healthy heart. The cholesterol levels of the body are also maintained using this oil. CLA safflower oil helps in losing weight. Shedding those extra pounds is not a simple task and you need to do a lot more along with exercise. Safflower oil is very good for healthy and shiny hair. If you are having dull, damaged, and dry hair, then this oil can be very helpful. Just massage a few drops of this oil into your scalp and it would increase the blood circulation in your scalp resulting in strong hair. When you have strong hair, why not have flawless skin? Yes, there are a number of products available in the market for flawless skin, but how many of them guarantee long-lasting results? Safflower oil can do that for you. You can check the CLA safflower oil reviews for skin and you will find the best reviews about this oil. It is good for joint pains as well. Massaging is one of the best ways to get rid of joint pains and massaging with safflower oil is a good option for better results. Diabetes is a health condition that needs to be treated with the right medicine. According to many studies, the omega-6 fatty acids are considered as the best option for controlling sugar levels in the body. It is also good for treating a migraine headache. Any health problems related to respiration can be treated using this oil. Menstrual pain and cramps in women can be treated with the help of this oil. Are there any side effects of safflower oil? There are no side effects of using safflower oil when used in moderation. This oil is strong and can cause irritation, so do not use it directly. You need to dilute with any carrier oil before you actually use it. What is the dosage of safflower oil that is good for your health? The dosage of CLA safflower oil usually depends on what kind of health issue you are treating. If you are using it to help reduce weight, then you can use it as cooking oil for at least six weeks. For this, you should consume at least one and a half teaspoons of this oil on a daily basis. How should safflower oil be stored for better results? Safflower has to be stored always in a dark place in an airtight container. Safflower oil can be kept in the refrigerator. In order to reduce the chances of oxidation, you should make sure that minimal air and light reaches the containers in which the oil is stored. You need to use the oil in just one or two months after you open the packing or oil tin.