Has Thyroid Cancer Been Ignored for Five Years?
Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor originating from thyroid follicular epithelium or parafollicular cells. If left untreated for five years, the condition may gradually worsen, leading to tumor spread and metastasis, seriously affecting the patient's life expectancy. Therefore, it is recommended that patients seek active treatment in the early stages once thyroid cancer is detected, as the prognosis is generally favorable.
The onset of thyroid cancer may be related to factors such as genetics, ionizing radiation, and iodine deficiency. It may also be caused by radionuclide exposure, genetic mutations, and other factors. If left untreated for five years, the condition will gradually worsen, potentially leading to tumor spread and metastasis, which can endanger the patient's life.
Patients with thyroid cancer often do not exhibit obvious symptoms in the early stages. They may present with neck masses, which are typically detected during medical examinations. As the tumor grows, patients may experience neck pain, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing.
Thyroid cancer treatment typically revolves around surgery, including total thyroidectomy, thyroid lobectomy, and microwave ablation. After total thyroidectomy, there may be permanent damage to the parathyroid glands, which secrete thyroid hormones and can lead to osteoporosis. If not treated promptly, it can also increase the risk of postoperative complications such as urinary tract infections, lung infections, and other life-threatening conditions.
After thyroid surgery, patients need to take levothyroxine sodium tablets for long-term treatment. If patients discontinue or reduce the dosage without following medical advice, it can lead to a reduction in thyroid hormones, resulting in hypothyroidism. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed medication dosage and avoid reducing or discontinuing it without authorization. Patients are also advised to rest adequately, avoid staying up late, maintain a balanced diet, refrain from consuming spicy and stimulating foods, and engage in appropriate exercise such as walking or Tai Chi.
