Hyperthyroidism Support Group
Hyperthyroidism (or "overactive thyroid gland") is the clinical syndrome featuring weight loss (often accompanied by a ravenous appetite), fatigue, weakness, hyperactivity, irritability, apathy, depression, polyuria, and sweating. Additional symptoms may include palpitations and arrhythmias (notably atrial fibrillation), dyspnea, loss of libido, nausea, vomiting, and...
A thyroid nodule was discovered today (my OBGYN could not feel it when she herself did an examination, but my general practitioner felt it easily). I am concerned about whether it is hyperthyroidism or cancer or just a random cyst. My mother had Hyperthyroidism and had a nodule large enough to see and feel. She had surgery and they removed almost all of her thyroid gland. Mine is very small, but I'm still worried. I am scheduled to have an ultrasound Friday and blood work next week.
The only symptoms I've had that are abnormal are extremely rapid pulse rate (ALWAYS over 100, for nearly 6 months). I told my Dr about the rapid pulse rate, and he checked it, and got worried and started examining my thyroid, where he discovered the nodule.
I know that no one here is a doctor, but what are the chances that this is cancer or hyperthyroidism (I'd prefer hyperthyroidism, of course, but what happens, happens)?
If it IS HT, what should I do to "help" with my rapid pulse rate? My Dr gave me Metroprol or whatever you call it, and I take Klonopin and Lorcet as well (the Lorcet is for a non-related problem). I thought since Klonopin and Lorcet are sedatives or sedative-like that I wouldn't have such a high pulse rate, but...the only thing that lowers it is Metroprol. About an hour after I took it, I noticed a significant drop in my pulse. I was even much calmer. I took Lorcet and Klonopin about 2 hours later and didn't notice any difference. Since the same Dr prescribed all 3 medications, I assume they're safe to take together. He gave me no warnings about taking them separate or anything.
The only symptoms I've had that are abnormal are extremely rapid pulse rate (ALWAYS over 100, for nearly 6 months). I told my Dr about the rapid pulse rate, and he checked it, and got worried and started examining my thyroid, where he discovered the nodule.
I know that no one here is a doctor, but what are the chances that this is cancer or hyperthyroidism (I'd prefer hyperthyroidism, of course, but what happens, happens)?
If it IS HT, what should I do to "help" with my rapid pulse rate? My Dr gave me Metroprol or whatever you call it, and I take Klonopin and Lorcet as well (the Lorcet is for a non-related problem). I thought since Klonopin and Lorcet are sedatives or sedative-like that I wouldn't have such a high pulse rate, but...the only thing that lowers it is Metroprol. About an hour after I took it, I noticed a significant drop in my pulse. I was even much calmer. I took Lorcet and Klonopin about 2 hours later and didn't notice any difference. Since the same Dr prescribed all 3 medications, I assume they're safe to take together. He gave me no warnings about taking them separate or anything.
Then the next step is doing an ultrasound with a FNA (Fine Needle Aspiration) if you're so inclined to find out if any cancer.
But try the first route first.
I also hope you know what your thyroid levels of the Free T3 and the Free T4 are doing and keep track of all your hard copies of labs to know how you are feeling,etc. You might need to take an ATD (antithyroid drug) if your Free T4 is too high. The Metroprolol you are taking, helps to lower down the Free T3.
{{{hugs}}}