The thyroid is located in the neck and helps regulate metabolism.When your doctor wants to examine a growth that has been found on your thyroid, it's a good idea to have a Thyroid Scan.The growth can be scanned to see if it is a cyst or a cancer.Athyroid scans don't usually require much preparation.Identifying which type of Scan you need as well as any medications you are taking that might interfere with the test are some of the things to be aware of.
Step 1: Find out what type of scans you are getting.
There are 3 different types of scans.Nuclear scans are used to look at the size, position, and shape of the thyroid.A radioactive iodine uptake test is when you swallow a liquid or capsule to measure your thyroid function.Sound waves are used to create an image of your body.You won't need to stop taking medication prior to the test, and it's painless.
Step 2: Do you need to stop taking your medication?
If you need to stop taking your medications or vitamins, you should speak with your doctor.It's important to stop using them because they can interfere with the results.Anti-thyroid medications are included in these medications.The results of your scans could be affected by the use of these medications.Do not stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor.
Step 3: Inform your physician if you have anycontraindications.
Make sure to tell your doctor if you have any risk factors or health issues that would make you unsuitable for the test.If you have previously suffered anaphylactic reaction from any substance, you should tell your doctor.If you have an allergy to any medication.If you are breastfeeding.You may be pregnant.
Step 4: If there are any procedures that could affect the test, let your doctor know.
It could affect your results if you had a procedure that used radioactive material within 4 weeks.You will need to change your scans if you have.The contrast mediums are able to change the results of your test.The cells in your thyroid will not be able to absorb the contrast material because they already have it.
Step 5: It's a good idea to avoid consuming iodine.
If you stay away from iodine in the days leading up to the exam, you'll be able to absorb the dye used on the test.The best results will be received by your healthcare provider.A low-iodine diet for 2 weeks may be required by your healthcare provider.Iodized salt is one of the substances that contain iodine.
Step 6: Prepare yourself for the procedure.
The scans are painless and you don't need an IV.The IV is used to deliver the radiotracer, and you may feel a cool sensation as it travels up your arm.In some cases, the radiotracer may be given by mouth.It doesn't have much to no taste.Don't hesitate to ask your doctor or radiologist any questions you have prior to the exam.If you get answers to all of your questions, your stress can be minimized.
Step 7: On the day of the exam, wear loose clothing.
On the day of the exam, the technician may ask you to remove your clothing and wear a hospital gown.Make sure the clothing you choose is easy to remove.You may need to open the clothing if you remain in your own clothing.It's a good idea to wear a button up shirt so that the technician can easily access your thyroid.
Step 8: You should remove any jewelry that is near your body.
Below your Adam's apple is where your thyroid is located.If you wear jewelry in this area, it's a good idea to take it off before the test.
Step 9: Take someone with you to the exam.
You may get bad news about your health when you get a checkup.If you get bad news, it's a good idea to have a friend or family member with you.It is possible to have a friend or family member in the room with you.If you're comfortable with it, do it.
Step 10: The child should be told what the exam will involve.
It's important that your child knows what to expect from the exam before the day of it.Pretending that you are doing the procedure on their thyroid is the best way to do this.As your child will be more familiar with the procedure, they will feel less anxious.If your child is reaching for leaves on a tree, ask them to shorten their neck.If the child is going for an exam, put a small amount of lotion on their neck to make it look like the exam is happening.The ice cream scooper's backside can be used as a wand.Pretend to be pushing buttons and looking at a screen while moving the scoop around.You should treat your child like a technician.Ask their name and how they are feeling.
Step 11: The child needs to be prepared emotionally.
You should also tell the child what the test is about and what it means.Talk to them about how they are feeling.Let them know that their fears and concerns are normal and that you will help them through any problems that arise.It is important to consider the child's age and maturity when deciding how much to tell them.
Step 12: To distract your child during the procedure, bring various items with you.
You might want to bring something to entertain your child during the procedure.There are some items that might be helpful.
Step 13: Discuss if sedating your child is necessary.
It is impossible to achieve accurate results when children refuse to sit still for the exam.If the scans can't be obtained at the center, you may have to take your child to the hospital.Discuss this option with your doctor.This should only be done as a last option because it is much easier to do the test without anesthesia.A hospital has the ability to monitor your child while they are being scanned.chloral hydrate is a medication used for sedation.This is not a form of anesthesia.It can be administered via an anal suppository, in a liquid form by mouth, or with a nasogastric tube attached to an oxygen face mask.The effects of the drug last for a while.
Step 14: Don't let your child move during the procedure.
An exam is very sensitive to motion.Many children cry and refuse to hold still, which prolongs the procedure.If your child behaves well after the procedure, you should use distraction techniques or give them promises of rewards.The technicians at the majority of facilities are familiar with the challenges associated with scanning children.They may have ways to keep the child still.