Thyroid ultrasound
Thyroid sonography, also known as ultrasound scanning, is a non-invasive and painless method that is currently used to detect various problems in the thyroid gland. The procedure is quick, safe and requires no preparation, making it a popular tool for both prevention and diagnosis of diseases such as nodules or other thyroid changes.
What is thyroid sonography
Thyroid sonography is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses ultrasound waves to view the thyroid gland in detail. This safe, painless and highly effective procedure is performed to thoroughly examine the thyroid gland, its structure and function. Sonography is able to detect various abnormalities that could indicate health problems such as nodules, cysts, enlargement of the gland, inflammation or even cancerous changes.
During the scan, a special probe that sends and receives sound waves is used to create a real-time image, allowing doctors to get a detailed view of the thyroid's condition. This image is then analyzed to identify any changes in the size or structure of the gland that could be indicative of a pathological change. The examination is very sensitive and therefore is able to pick up even small lesions or abnormalities that would not otherwise be palpable or visible.
Thyroid sonography is considered one of the safest diagnostic tools because it does not use ionizing radiation, unlike X-ray or CT scans. This means that it is also suitable for regular monitoring of thyroid health without any risk to the patient. It is an ideal choice for people who need to regularly check the health of their thyroid gland, especially those with a family history of thyroid disease or those who have a high risk of nodules or other changes in the area.
This method is not only effective for diagnosis, but also essential for early detection of potential problems, allowing early intervention and prevention of more serious complications. Early detection of nodules or changes in the structure of the thyroid gland can be crucial for successful treatment and preventing the onset of serious diseases such as thyroid cancer or hormonal disorders.
Sonography is also often part of preventive check-ups to help detect thyroid problems even in patients who have no obvious symptoms. This way, doctors can ensure that any changes in the structure of the thyroid gland are detected early and medical care can begin as soon as possible.
How is the ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland
The ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland begins with the application of a special gel to the skin in the neck area. This gel serves to better transmit sound waves, which ensures high image quality. The gel is applied to the skin, then the doctor uses a small probe that transmits and receives ultrasound waves to perform a detailed scan of the thyroid gland. The probe is gently moved over the skin, allowing images to be obtained of all relevant parts of the thyroid gland.
The resulting images, which are produced in real time, are immediately displayed on a monitor. These images give the doctor a detailed view of the structure of the thyroid gland, including possible changes such as nodules or other abnormalities. The examination is quick, non-invasive and painless, requiring no complicated preparation. Once the examination is complete, the patient is able to return to normal activities immediately, as the ultrasound requires no recovery.
Benefits of thyroid sonography
- Safety: unlike an X-ray, it does not use ionising radiation, which means it is completely safe.
- Speed: The results of the scan are available immediately, allowing a quick decision on the next course of action.
- Painless: the examination is comfortable, quick and requires no complicated preparation.
- High sensitivity: sonography is able to detect even small changes that might be missed in other types of examinations.
When a thyroid examination is recommended
Thyroid sonography is primarily recommended for patients who show symptoms of possible thyroid disorders. The main indications include palpable nodules in the neck area, which may be a sign of thyroid enlargement or other pathological changes. In addition, the examination is recommended if there are changes in thyroid hormone levels that may indicate thyroid dysfunction, such as hypothyroidism (decreased thyroid function) or hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function).
Ultrasound is also appropriate for patients who have other abnormalities that have been detected on physical examination, such as enlargement of the cervical nodes or changes in the sensation and structure of the neck. Sonography helps to evaluate in more detail whether these changes are due to thyroid problems or other diseases.
In addition, thyroid sonography is a part of regular preventive check-ups, especially for people with a family history of thyroid disease. Genetic predisposition to various thyroid diseases such as nodules or cancer makes regular ultrasound an important tool for early detection and prevention.
Ultrasound is also recommended for patients who have certain risk factors, such as age over 60, gender (women are more likely to be affected by thyroid problems), or if the patient has undergone radiation to the cervical region. Early diagnosis through sonography can help identify problems at an early stage, which is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of more serious health complications.
What can an ultrasound scan reveal
- Nodules: most nodules are benign. Ultrasound can assess their size, shape and structure, which helps decide on the next course of action.
- Gland enlargement or inflammation: ultrasound will detect enlargement of the thyroid gland or inflammation (thyroiditis), which may be a sign of malfunction or other diseases.
- Cysts and other changes: It detects the presence of cysts or other structural changes that may require regular monitoring.
Thyroid care
Thyroid sonography is a key tool for the diagnosis and prevention of various diseases of the thyroid gland. This non-invasive, painless and safe procedure allows doctors to assess the health of the thyroid gland in detail and detect any problems such as nodules, enlargement of the gland or other pathological changes early. This makes ultrasound, along with testing thyroid hormone levels, a great solution for patients who want to make sure their thyroid is healthy.
Early diagnosis through sonography is important not only for patients who show symptoms of thyroid problems, but also for those who have no visible symptoms but want to take control of their health. In this day and age when thyroid disease is affecting more and more people, prevention and regular monitoring of thyroid health is key to maintaining overall health and well-being.
If you have any concerns or notice symptoms that could indicate a thyroid problem, such as fatigue, weight changes, or neck pain, don't hesitate to contact the experts at Hello Beauty Clinic. Our clinic offers high-quality ultrasound scans of the thyroid gland to provide valuable information about its current condition. Our specialists will also provide you with advice and possible follow-up care to help you keep your thyroid gland in optimal health.
You can also make an appointment for a sonography examination online via the following link
*we always open the next month's appointments on the 15th of the previous month (we will open the December appointments on the 15th of November), thank you for your understanding