Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 1 reply
  • Views 211 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Thyroid confusion

Jen_x_x
Offline

Hi everyone,

I'm hoping someone may be able to clear something up for me. 

Weeks ago I had an ultrasound on my neck and throat after months of symptoms which found I had hashimoto's and a lot of reactive lymph nodes. I've since been put on a strong dose of medication and told that they will see me again in 8 weeks. All of that is fine, however, when the topic of my lymph nodes came up I specifically asked if the hashimoto's diagnosis meant that it wasn't cancer because I've had cancer in the past and needed to be reassured. 

The doctor very matter of fact turned and said no it doesn't mean that, at the moment it's indistinguishable from cancer and we will see what happens in 8 weeks when we repeat the blood tests and scans. 

Has anyone ever experienced anything like this? Is there anything I can do to get tests done sooner? Can I pay to get private tests, and what tests would I need? 8 weeks of just waiting before we look at testing to see if it's cancer seems crazy.

Thanks x

 

 

  • Offline

    Hello Jen_x_x, 

    I completely understand you needed to be reassured and if that particular doctor didn't give you the reassurance you needed or left you a bit puzzled, it might be worth trying to get a second opinion and talking to another doctor about this. You can read more about getting a second opinion on this page. 

    Your medical team will be best placed to tell you what tests you might need and if you are thinking of going private for tests, rest assured you can still go back to the NHS for treatment at any point as mentioned on the NHS website: you are still entitled to free NHS care if you choose to pay for additional private care. 

    I think the best thing to do though is perhaps to try and seek a second opinion and talk with a doctor who will take the time you need to explain things fully to you and tell you whether this 8 week wait will make a difference if there was a possibility it could be cancer. You could also ask at the same time whether there is any chance you could have the tests done sooner. I think you need clear and good communication from a medical expert who will hopefully reassure you and guide you through the best steps to take at this stage. 

    Our nurses are also available on this free number 0808 800 4040 if you would like to talk things through with them - their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    I hope you find out more about this soon and that you get some clarity on this.

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

     

     

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.