Did you know you can check your thyroid by yourself at home? Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck that plays a big role in keeping your body healthy. It helps control how your body uses energy, grows, and stays warm. If your thyroid isn't working correctly, you might feel tired, gain weight, or even feel too hot or too cold.
Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow guide on how to perform a self thyroid exam at home.
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What is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, right below your Adam's apple. It makes special chemicals called hormones that help your body do all kinds of important things. When your thyroid is healthy, you probably don’t even notice it. But if there’s a problem, it might get bigger or develop lumps called nodules. This can sometimes make swallowing or breathing harder.
Why Check Your Thyroid?
Doctors recommend checking your thyroid if you have any symptoms like:
- Feeling really tired a lot
- Gaining weight even if you haven’t been eating more
- Feeling too hot or too cold all the time
- Having trouble swallowing or breathing
Doing a quick thyroid exam can help you see if there’s a lump or swelling that you should talk to a doctor about.
Things You Need for a Self Thyroid Exam
Before starting, gather these items:
- A glass of water
- A mirror (one you can hold or a wall mirror)
Now that you have your tools ready, let’s get started!
Step 1: Find the Right Spot
Stand in Front of a Mirror
Stand in front of a mirror so you can clearly see your neck. This will help you spot any swelling or lumps.
Locate Your Thyroid Area
Look at the area in the lower part of your neck, right above your collarbones and below your Adam’s apple (the little bump in the middle of your throat).
Step 2: Swallow and Watch
Take a Sip of Water
Hold the glass of water and take a small sip.
Swallow While Watching
While you swallow, watch the area in your neck where the thyroid is located. Look closely to see if there is any swelling, bulge, or lump moving up and down as you swallow.
Repeat if Needed
Try taking a few more sips and watch carefully each time you swallow. It might take a few tries to notice anything unusual.
Step 3: Feel for Lumps or Swelling
Gently Touch the Thyroid Area
With your fingers, gently feel around the thyroid area. Use your fingers to press lightly on both sides of your neck, near your Adam's apple.
Check for Lumps or Swelling
If you feel any lumps or notice any pain, this could be a sign that you should talk to a doctor.
What to Do If You Find Something Unusual
If you notice:
- A bump or swelling that doesn’t go away
- Any pain in your neck
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
- Tell an adult and consider seeing a doctor.
Doctors can do more tests, like blood tests or even an ultrasound, to check if your thyroid is working well.
Tips for a Safe Thyroid Exam
Don’t press too hard: The thyroid is sensitive, so be gentle when you feel for lumps.
Practice in good lighting: Good light will help you see any changes or unusual lumps.
Repeat the exam every few months: It’s helpful to check your thyroid every few months to stay aware of any changes.
Conclusion
Doing a thyroid exam at home can be an easy way to take care of your health! This simple check can help you notice any changes and get help if needed. Remember, if you feel any lumps, swelling, or pain in your neck, tell an adult and visit a doctor. Checking your thyroid can help you stay healthy and active.
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