THYROID

The thyroid gland is an H shaped gland that lies in the lower neck in front of the windpipe and produces hormones.

These hormones travel throughout the body and affect growth, metabolism, heart beat, and body temperature. Unfortunately, the thyroid can have problems.

These problems may include becoming enlarged or developing nodules.

Sometimes a nodule can contain cancer. Problems in this area are diagnosed and treated with taking a careful history including a family history, physical examination, blood tests, and ultrasound tests.

Sometimes other scans or biopsies are needed. Sometimes surgery is required to remove an enlarged thyroid or tumor.

This is delicate surgery because the nerves that control the vocal cords run behind the gland. The small calcium glands also lie next to it. There are also many blood vessels in the area. Dr. James Go sees patients with thyroid problems.