How to Check Your Neck for Early Detection of Thyroid Disease

By Mary Shomon, About.com Guide

Updated June 13, 2013

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Millions of Americans have undiagnosed thyroid problems. To help with early detection, you can perform a simple self-exam. Checking your neck can -- in some cases -- help you find lumps or enlargements in the neck that may point to thyroid conditions, including nodules, goiter and thyroid cancer. Here is how to do a thyroid neck check.

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• Why You Should Check Your Neck?
• Stand in front of a mirror
• Stretch your neck back
• Swallow water
• Look for enlargement in the neck
• Feel area to confirm enlargement or bump
• If a problem is detected, see an doctor

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