About two weeks ago on December 9, I had my thyroid removed because it had enlarged and was pressing on my windpipe.  Though I am still waiting for the final pathology report, the results of the outpatient biopsy and the surgeon’s impressions were that this is not a cancer.  I first noted symptoms at the end of September 2011 and the workup took a little over 2 months.  Over that period of time I had 12 appointments for either testing or physician consultations. I think some aspects of my experience may be useful to help people in similar circumstances understand how best to use the healthcare system.

1. Pay attention to your body.

My symptoms were quite mild actually.  I started feeling a pressure against my throat as if someone was lightly pushing against my windpipe.  It wasn’t painful.  It was just different. My voice was also a little bit hoarse.

2. Understand the potential urgency of certain symptoms

As a doctor I naturally thought of all the things it could be, going from bad to worse.  Because it could start to affect my breathing, I set up an appointment with my PCP early the next week.

As a medical student, I was taught that about 80% of the reasons a person visits a primary care physician get better on their own.  But when you are having symptoms that can affect your breathing, heart beat, consciousness, or are causing an excessive amount of pain or a loss in how your body functions, you need to see a physician sooner rather than later.  For more on this topic check out this previous post, When To Get Care.

3. Get beyond the fear of the worst

The sooner a potentially lethal condition such as a cancer is diagnosed, the better are your chances for remission and potentially cure.  Ignoring symptoms does not treat the condition.  If it is a cancer, the delay gives it a chance to grow locally and spread throughout the body.  I know that this seems to be a very cold, scientific response to a situation that can be filled with emotions.  Everyone needs to work through these issues on their own.  But at this point, where a diagnosis has yet to be made, let your good sense take the lead and get a diagnosis.

In the next post I’ll share more about my recent experience and give you some things to consider if you ever are faced with a similar situation.  Meanwhile, please add your comments and experiences!

For Your Health – Dr. Bob