Question 1

What is Thyroid Nodules and Thyroid Cancer?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid nodules are lumps that form within the thyroid gland, and while most are benign, some can develop into thyroid cancer. Both iodine deficiency and excess iodine intake can disrupt normal thyroid function and increase the risk of nodule formation. The Iodine, 24-Hour Urine test is the most important test for assessing your iodine status and thyroid nodule risk.

Question 2

What causes thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid nodules are caused by abnormal growth of thyroid tissue, with iodine imbalance being a major contributing factor. Both too little and too much iodine can disrupt normal thyroid function and trigger nodule formation. Other causes include chronic inflammation (Hashimoto's thyroiditis), thyroid cysts filled with fluid, or genetic mutations. Most thyroid nodules are benign, but approximately 5-10% can be cancerous, which is why monitoring risk factors like iodine status is important for early detection.

Question 3

What is the best test for thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

The Iodine, 24-Hour Urine test is the most important blood work for assessing thyroid nodule risk because it measures your body's iodine levels over a full day. This test detects both iodine deficiency and excess, which are key risk factors for developing thyroid nodules. While imaging studies like ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsies are needed for definitive diagnosis of existing nodules, monitoring your iodine status helps identify your risk profile before nodules develop. Maintaining optimal iodine balance is essential for preventing thyroid abnormalities and supporting overall thyroid health.

Question 4

When should I get tested for thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice a visible lump in your neck, experience difficulty swallowing or breathing, or have unexplained hoarseness that persists. Testing is also important if you have a family history of thyroid disease or cancer, have been exposed to radiation during childhood, or live in an area with known iodine deficiency. Additionally, if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or heart palpitations alongside neck swelling, these warrant immediate evaluation to assess your thyroid health and iodine status.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

Most thyroid nodules cause no symptoms and are discovered during routine physical exams or imaging tests for other conditions. When symptoms do occur, you might notice a visible lump at the base of your neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, pain in your neck or jaw, or persistent hoarseness. If a nodule produces excess thyroid hormone (hot nodule), you may experience rapid heartbeat, unexplained weight loss, nervousness, or tremors. Large nodules can create a feeling of fullness in the neck or make swallowing uncomfortable.

Question 6

Who is at risk for thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

Women are at higher risk than men for developing thyroid nodules, and risk increases with age, particularly after 60. People with a family history of thyroid disease or thyroid cancer have elevated risk, as do those who received radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest during childhood. Living in regions with iodine-deficient soil or consuming a diet either too low or too high in iodine increases your likelihood of developing nodules. Individuals with chronic thyroid inflammation like Hashimoto's thyroiditis are also more susceptible to nodule formation.

Question 7

What happens if thyroid nodules are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If thyroid nodules are left untreated, benign nodules may continue to grow and cause compression symptoms like difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, or visible neck deformity. Some nodules can become overactive and produce excess thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism with symptoms like heart palpitations, weight loss, and anxiety. Most concerning is that cancerous nodules left undetected can spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body, significantly reducing treatment success rates. Regular monitoring and early evaluation are crucial because thyroid cancer has excellent survival rates when caught early.

Question 8

Can thyroid nodules be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot diagnose thyroid nodules, but they play an important supporting role in assessing your risk factors and thyroid function. The Iodine, 24-Hour Urine test helps identify iodine imbalances that increase nodule risk, while thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4) can detect whether nodules are affecting hormone production. Definitive diagnosis requires physical examination, thyroid ultrasound imaging to visualize the nodules, and often a fine needle aspiration biopsy to determine if nodules are benign or cancerous. Blood work provides valuable context for understanding your overall thyroid health.

Question 9

How are thyroid nodules treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for thyroid nodules depends on whether they are benign or cancerous. Benign nodules that cause no symptoms are typically monitored with periodic ultrasounds and physical exams without immediate treatment. If nodules produce excess thyroid hormone, treatment options include radioactive iodine therapy or anti-thyroid medications. Large nodules causing compression symptoms may require surgical removal, and cancerous nodules are treated with surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland, often followed by radioactive iodine treatment. Maintaining optimal iodine levels through proper nutrition can help prevent new nodule formation.

Question 10

How can I prevent thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining proper iodine balance is the most important preventive measure, as both deficiency and excess increase nodule risk. Use iodized salt in moderation and eat a balanced diet including seafood, dairy products, and eggs, which are natural iodine sources. Avoid excessive exposure to radiation and ensure children receive appropriate thyroid protection during medical imaging procedures. If you have a family history of thyroid disease, schedule regular thyroid check-ups with your doctor. Testing your iodine levels can help you understand whether your dietary intake is within the optimal range for thyroid health.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with thyroid nodules?

Accepted Answer

While natural remedies cannot eliminate existing thyroid nodules, certain lifestyle approaches support overall thyroid health. Eating selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, fish, and eggs helps reduce thyroid inflammation and supports proper hormone production. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure or supplementation may help regulate thyroid function. Reducing consumption of goitrogenic foods like raw cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower) in excessive amounts can prevent thyroid suppression. Stress management through yoga, meditation, or regular exercise supports hormonal balance. Always work with your healthcare provider to monitor nodules and maintain optimal iodine intake through diet or supplementation.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Thyroid Nodules & Cancer Blood Test

What is Thyroid Nodules and Thyroid Cancer?

What causes thyroid nodules?

What is the best test for thyroid nodules?

When should I get tested for thyroid nodules?

References

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