Understanding Swollen Thyroid Despite Normal Blood Results
Hello, I'm a 39-year-old female seeking insights into my health situation, as my doctor appears reluctant to delve deeper. For some time, I've noticed that my right thyroid gland has gradually enlarged, but it has become significantly more swollen in recent months, becoming apparent to others. While there's no intense discomfort, I do feel some tenderness when I touch the area. Recently, I have been dealing with various troubling symptoms, including severe joint discomfort, hair thinning, memory lapses, and inexplicable weight gain—essentially mirroring the symptoms commonly associated with Hashimoto’s Disease. I truly believed I might be experiencing this condition. After running some blood tests, my doctor confirmed that my TPO antibodies were normal at a level of 9, and my TSH levels were within the acceptable range as well. The only abnormal result was from a comprehensive test showing my Total CO2 levels at 18. I have an ultrasound scheduled for this Friday to further assess my thyroid, but I haven't received any feedback from my doctor regarding the findings thus far. I’m left wondering why my thyroid is so enlarged when my lab results seem to indicate everything is fine. I appreciate any insights or explanations you might provide. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 6:50:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a concerning symptom with your thyroid and some distressing overall symptoms, despite having normal initial test results. Understanding your health situation is important, and it's good that you have an ultrasound scheduled to investigate further. Here's a structured response to your concerns:
Main Points
- Swelling of the thyroid can happen for various reasons, even with normal blood tests.
- Symptoms you're experiencing could relate to thyroid issues or other conditions.
- The upcoming ultrasound will provide more clarity about your thyroid's condition.
Explanation
Thyroid enlargement, or a goiter, can result from numerous factors including iodine deficiency, nodules, or inflammation, which may not always affect the levels of hormones or antibodies you're currently being tested for. Normal TPO antibodies and TSH levels suggest no autoimmune thyroid condition like Hashimoto's disease is present, but this doesn't rule out other thyroid issues such as nodules or benign growths. Your symptoms like joint discomfort, hair thinning, and memory lapses can stem from various causes, including hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, or even chronic conditions that might not be solely linked to the thyroid.
Next Steps
- Ultrasound Follow-Up: Attend your ultrasound appointment, as it will help assess the size, texture, and possible nodules of your thyroid gland. Make sure to ask the technician or your doctor about the findings.
- Symptom Journal: Keep a detailed symptom journal before and after your ultrasound appointment. Note when symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers or patterns.
- Discuss Comprehensive Options: After the ultrasound results, consider discussing with your doctor about testing for additional thyroid-related conditions or other issues that could explain your symptoms, like vitamin D levels, iron levels, or autoimmune disorders.
- Support for Symptoms: While waiting for further tests, consider lifestyle changes such as balanced nutrition, regular gentle exercise, and stress management techniques that may help alleviate some of your symptoms.
Your concerns are valid, and it's essential to continue advocating for your health. If you feel your doctor is not addressing your concerns adequately, seeking a second opinion from an endocrinologist may also be beneficial. Please don't hesitate to express your feelings to your healthcare provider and continue seeking clarity.
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