Easy Home Practices To Help You Diagnose Thyroid Disorders

Early detection is key in managing a thyroid disorder. A thyroid neck check (simple palpation of your neck on the sides, at the front and at the back) can help you. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) encourages everyone to perform a simple self-exam.

Here are the steps to perform a simple thyroid self-exam:

• First, get a glass of water (preferably at room temperature)

• Position yourself in front of a mirror (in your bathroom, bedroom, etc.)

• Then, tilt your head towards the back to have a good view of your neck, but don’t over stretch otherwise you might hurt yourself

• Drink the water and observe your throat as you do so

• Watch out for any enlargement or abnormal movement of your throat as you swallow the water

• Then, palpate your throat to check if there are any massed or bumps

• If you detect any of those, head to the hospital or consult your private physician right away.

NOTE: This might not necessarily mean that something is wrong, but this is not something you should be dealing with on your own, and medical attention is essential.

Thyroid problems could very well predispose you to developing life-threatening conditions such as strokes and/or heart attacks. Thus, breakaway from the average and seek medical attention as soon as you suspect a thyroid problem, based on the above-mentioned key signs. You might be saving a life or your life, and decrease your risks of developing these life threatening conditions and significantly improve your quality of life.