The thyroid gland produces important hormones that support a number of bodily functions. When tumours form on the thyroid, it can affect these functions and lead to worsening effects should the cancer spread. That’s why receiving timely treatment is so crucial, as it can potentially result in a better outcome.
The majority of thyroid tumours are not cancerous. However, these growths can still affect how the gland functions and can cause numerous symptoms as a result. Non-cancerous thyroid growths may also require treatment to ensure proper function of the gland.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, such as neck pain, fatigue, and throat hoarseness, you should visit a doctor immediately. Medical staff can perform tests to determine whether any growths are present and whether these growths are cancerous. Doctors typically use blood testing, diagnostic imaging, and biopsies when diagnosing thyroid cancer.
In the event the results of testing are positive for cancer, patients have a few treatment options. Doctors may recommend surgery to remove all or a portion of cancerous tissues. Radiation therapy can also help shrink cancerous growths and may be used alongside surgery.
Medication is another option for people with thyroid cancer. Some medications, like chemotherapy, are used to kill cancerous cells. Others, including targeted drug therapy, block the blood supply to tumours or cause genetic changes to stop cancerous growths from spreading and growing.
Hormone therapy may also be necessary, particularly for people who’ve undergone surgery for thyroid cancer. Hormone therapy replaces the hormones generated by the thyroid to support proper bodily function. This therapy can also be used to stop the growth of cancer cells by restricting the release of certain hormones.