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What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Thyroid Disease?

Posted on Tue, 24 Nov 2015

Question: I have Lyme disease, which is why my neurologist had me do a Lumbar Puncture(to check for Lyme bacteria-negative). I have had allot of procedures done recently since my Lumbar Puncture seven weeks ago,in order to check on my post lumbar LP headaches and back and leg pain. 2 Head MRIs-a lumbar puncture MRIs-2 Head CTs-1chest XRAY-an Upper GI series (to check on lap band status), and several neck and spine XRAYs. Now my ENT wants me to get a sinus CT scan, I am concerned about the amount of radiation I have been getting from all these procedures. I have read that it could contribute to possible thyroid issues. I have had a cough for about 10 days which is not respiratory , nor is it heart or lung related(according to the doctors). I also have a pain in my throat, along with extreme fatigue(can't even get out of bed), neck pain and some hoarseness. Is it possible that I have developed some type of thyroid cancer. What type of doctor deals with thyroid problems? Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Thyroid

Detailed Answer:
You have some neck symptoms that could be related to thyroid.

The best way to assess the function of the thyroid is to run a blood test called TSH. It does not require any fasting, and can be done at any time of the day.

The best way to study he structure of the thyroid such as when one suspects cancer, a thyroid Ultrasound is a good start.

Endocrinologists are best qualified to handle thyroid problems

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (5 hours later)

Did the thyroid blood work today-waiting for results-also did thyroid ultra sound-good news, all clear-no signs of nodules. Unfortunately, I also tested positive for "strep". The doctor was going to put me on amoxicillin for ten days, but I have a BAD Candida overgrowth problem(antibiotics promote candida)-so she put me on Zithromax(5 days course which I am starting today)instead. I am hoping that the "strep " is the reason why I have been so WIPED OUT these last couple of days. I will inform you of the blood work when I get it. I await your response.

Thanks,

rjb

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (28 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Follow up

Detailed Answer:
Best wishes for good health

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (2 days later)

I don't really follow the last response. I am going for a sinus CT scan tomorrow. I have been having the absolute WORST headaches ever, mostly in the area right under my eyes(next to my left nostril) for the last two days. I tested positive for Strep, and thus I am on a 5 day course of 500 mg of Zithromax(on day 3). My left side of my head is really congested, and I am still having post LP(had a LP procedure about 7 1/2 weeks ago), along with Lyme headaches. I don't understand why I am such pain. If the sinus CT scan doesn't reveal anything, my neurologist is prescribing a skull CT to see if there are any slight breaks or fissures in my skull base, which might reveal any low pressure/CSF leakage.
Please advise. Thanks, rjb

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Second follow up

Detailed Answer:
I suggest you get your thyroid checked as advised above.

These new symptoms that you are reporting are worrisome. When I see someone like you with such symptoms, I refer them immediately to the Emergency Room for a CT scan of the brain.

I know you have had CT and MRI before but this is really concerning.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar