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Effective Thyroid Cancer Treatment Options Available
Thyroid cancer is a cancer that results from abnormal growth of cells in the thyroid gland. If left untreated, thyroid cancer can spread to other parts of the body, resulting in serious health complications. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options available to people with thyroid cancer.
Surgery
One of the most common treatments for thyroid cancer is surgery. During the procedure, the entire thyroid lobe or entire thyroid gland is removed, depending on how far the cancer has spread.
In some cases, only one side of the thyroid is affected, so just that side must be removed. If the entire gland must be removed, the patient will be put on a thyroid hormone replacement medication, which should be taken for the remainder of their lives.
Radioiodine Therapy
This is another treatment option for thyroid cancer. Radioiodine is injected into the blood and it quickly infiltrates cancer cells, where it destroys them.
To ensure it does not damage healthy cells, the treatment is only offered after cancerous cells are identified by radioactive imaging. This is typically done with a scan to ensure that the treatment is targeted to only the cancerous cells.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is another treatment option for thyroid cancer. It works by using a machine that emits high-energy beams to kill off cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used in conjunction with surgery and radioiodine therapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be used as part of a treatment plan for thyroid cancer. Chemotherapy works by attempting to stop the growth of the cancer cells. It is usually used in conjunction with other treatments.
The Importance of Early Thyroid Cancer Detection
It is important to detect thyroid cancer as soon as possible. Early detection can allow for quicker and easier treatment, which can result in a better chance at survival.
There are some common symptoms of thyroid cancer that you should be aware of.
Common Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
- Persistent Neck Pain
- A Lump in The Neck
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Hoarseness of the Voice
- Coughing Unrelated to Colds
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor to get tested for thyroid cancer.
Conclusion
Thyroid cancer can be a challenging condition to treat due to its location in the neck. It is important to get tested for thyroid cancer if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.
Fortunately, there are a few effective treatments such as surgery, radioiodine therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy that can help to successfully treat thyroid cancer.
By detecting thyroid cancer early and taking advantage of the available treatment options, it might be possible to beat this condition and live a healthy life.
