The Neck Check
In order to recognise an enlarged thyroid or a nodule, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) recommends the so-called Neck Check.11
The test is simple and can be performed almost any time: you only need a hand-held mirror and a glass of water.
- Hold the mirror so that you can see the area below your Adam's apple.
- Lean your head back while focusing on this area where the thyroid is situated.
- Take a sip of water and swallow.
- While swallowing, observe whether swelling occurs in the area of the neck where the thyroid is situated.
Attention: Do not confuse the natural movement of your Adam's apple (when swallowing) with your thyroid. If necessary, repeat the Neck Check several times. Whenever you think there may be a thyroid mutation or are uncertain, you should consult a physician in order to have a precise diagnosis made.
References
- 6
- >American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). Neck Check Card. www.aace.com/public/awareness/tam/2006/pdfs/NeckCheckCard.pdf (Accessed November 2010)
