Dr. Hive Thyroid Swelling Question

[homeschoolally]

:confused:Hope there is someone who might have some input on this--I'm a little stressed and can't see the doctor until late today.

 

I have hypothyroidism and have been taking Synthroid for about 6 years without any complications. Last night I suddenly felt like I had a lump in my throat. It progressively became larger during the night until it was beginning to push on my airway and make swallowing very difficult.

 

I initially thought it was some kind of allergic reaction--but the swelling is directly where my thyroid sits--it is visible on my neck and very tender to the touch.

 

I took some liquid advil and it seemed to lessen the swelling a little. I googled it and this "thyroiditis" I've copied below is the only thing that caught my eye because I am about a week out of a respiratory infection and terrible sore throat.

 

Any thoughts? :bigear: I don't think I'll be able to swallow my Synthroid this morning so I'm a little concerned about that also.

 

Thanks for any thoughts. I hadn't experienced that feeling of being suffocated like that before and it really freaked me out. Now that the Advil is wearing off I can feel it swelling back up--but I can't eat anything and think I might get sick if I take it on an empty stomach. :confused:

 

 

Definition

Subacute thyroiditis involves swelling (inflammation) of the thyroid gland that usually follows an upper respiratory infection.

 

 

Treatment

The purpose of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation and treat hyperthyroidism, if it occurs. Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen are used to control pain in mild cases.

 

More serious cases may need temporary treatment with steroids (for example, prednisone) to control inflammation. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism are treated with a class of medications called beta blockers (for example, propranolol, atenolol). Antithyroid drugs or thionamides are not effective in treating this condition.

 

Expectations (Prognosis)

The condition should improve on its own. However, the illness may last for months. Long-term or severe complications do not usually occur.

[dirty ethel rackham]

I'd call the doctor if you are having difficulty swallowing. What you posted might be your problem or it might be something else.

[Donna T.]

: Last night I suddenly felt like I had a lump in my throat. It progressively became larger during the night until it was beginning to push on my airway and make swallowing very difficult.

 

I hadn't experienced that feeling of being suffocated like that before and it really freaked me out.

 

My husband has a thyroid disease. He has been on Synthroid for several years. This happens to him from time to time. He really struggles with a feeling that he is suffocating. It may begin in the throat but it usually spreads to his chest area. There have been a few times lately when he has completely lost his breath.

 

I think you should call your doctor immediately and tell them you need to be seen today.

 

I'll be praying for you today. I know it is really scary.

[Once Again]

It's a bit concerning that you can visibly see the swelling and it's making it hard for you to breathe. That sort of thing can't wait. I'd call back and stress that you are having trouble breathing. If they still won't let you right in, I'd think about the ER.

[homeschoolally]

Thanks so much for the replies--the doctor prescribed steroids to reduce the swelling and a blood workup to find out the cause.

 

The kids and I watched the "Slim Goodbody" (boy that takes me back!) episode about the endocrine system this morning when I was trying to explain what the thyroid was. I can't beleive how much that little gland is responsible for. A little frightening to think about how dependent I am on Synthroid and will be for the rest of my life--especially since the generic has been very ineffective so the $4 Walmart prescription won't be an option.

 

Thanks again for the thoughtful replies. I'm very appreciative!!!!!

[Once Again]

I'm glad you were able to get in to see your Dr. today. Hope you're back to normal quickly.:)