An estimated 27 million Americans have thyroid disease, and over half are undiagnosed. Frequently overlooked and misdiagnosed, thyroid disease affects almost every aspect of health. The thyroid helps set an individual’s metabolism. If a person has thyroid disease, his body uses energy more slowly or quickly than it should. An ultrasound scan of the thyroid is typically used to help diagnose a lump in the thyroid or one that is not functioning properly.

Preparation needed for your Thyroid health screening:

• Take medications as normal.
• Wear comfortable clothing (a loose fitting shirt or blouse) short sleeves are preferred.
• Do not wear neck jewelry or turtlenecks.

What is the Thyroid and its function?

Your thyroid gland is a small gland, normally weighing less than one ounce, located in the front of the neck. It is made up of two halves, called lobes, that lie along the windpipe (trachea) and are joined together by a narrow band of thyroid tissue, known as the isthmus. The thyroid is situated just below your "Adams apple" or larynx.

The function of the thyroid gland is to take iodine, found in many foods, and convert it into thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid cells are the only cells in the body which can absorb iodine. These cells combine iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to make T3 and T4. T3 and T4 are then released into the blood stream and are transported throughout the body where they control metabolism (conversion of oxygen and calories to energy). Every cell in the body depends upon thyroid hormones for regulation of their metabolism. The normal thyroid gland produces about 80% T4 and about 20% T3, however, T3 possesses about four times the hormone "strength" as T4.

What is an Ultrasound of the Thyroid?

Ultrasound imaging, does not use ionizing radiation (as used in x-rays). Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show any abnormalities and see if your thyroid is functioning properly.