According to Cancer.org, about 62,450 new cases of thyroid cancer were reported in 2015. This DIY thyroid check is a simple cancer screening you can (and should) do in the comfort of your home.
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. Hormones produced by the thyroid affect all parts of the body, from your metabolism and temperature, to your heartbeat and energy levels. In addition to being overactive and producing too much thyroid hormone, or underactive and producing too little, you can also have a lump in your thyroid, or it can be enlarged.
To perform a thyroid neck check, all you need is a glass of water and a mirror. Simply take a sip of water and tilt your head back. As you swallow, look in the mirror and check for any bulges or swelling. (Remember, your thyroid is lower down on your neck, closer to your collarbone and beneath the Adam's apple.) If you feel or see any lumps, bumps, or irregularities, you may have an enlarged thyroid — or thyroid nodules — which may or may not be serious. If you do feel or see something abnormally large, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor.
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