Aubrie Cogan, a 27-year-old resident of Brooklyn, had always been seen as the unfortunate ‘bad luck Brie’ by her close friends and family. Little did she know, her life was about to take an unforeseen turn that would redefine her moniker and compel her to wage a battle against an invisible enemy—thyroid cancer.
Early Signs and Symptoms
During the winter season, Aubrie noticed a peculiar swelling behind her ear, in her neck. Initially, it seemed harmless; she did not feel ill, just slightly off balance. Concluding that it could be stress-induced inflammation, she decided to dismiss it.
Nonetheless, the lump didn’t retreat. It persisted for three months, gradually developing into a source of unease for Aubrie. Trusting her gut instincts, she made an appointment with a doctor, bracing herself for a grim revelation.
Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer
Aubrie’s concerns led her to consult Dr. Catherine Sinclair, the director of head and neck surgery at Mount Sinai West. Dr. Sinclair decided to perform an ultrasound on Aubrie’s neck and throat.
Surprisingly, the swelling Aubrie had observed for months turned out to be benign. However, during the same examination, Dr. Sinclair made an unexpected discovery. Upon further inspection of Aubrie’s thyroid, the doctor discovered unusual features that raised alarm. Following a biopsy, they confirmed a disheartening diagnosis—thyroid cancer.
The Reality of Thyroid Cancer
While this revelation sent shock waves through Aubrie’s life, it’s essential to understand that thyroid cancer is not an uncommon ailment. Dr. Sinclair pointed out that about 50,000 individuals receive a similar diagnosis each year, with the disease affecting women approximately three times more than men.
Despite its prevalence, every individual’s encounter with thyroid cancer is unique. In Aubrie’s case, she had anticipated her swollen lymph node to be the harbinger of her health concerns. It’s noteworthy to mention that while a swollen lymph node can indicate cancer, it’s not always the case. Dr. Sinclair reassured, “Of the people we see with (enlarged) lymph nodes in their neck, most of them won’t have a malignancy.”
Risk Factors and Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
In Aubrie’s situation, no known risk factors for thyroid cancer were evident, which is often the case for many patients. While a family history of thyroid cancer, residing near a nuclear site, or undergoing radiation therapy (for neck or breast cancer) are known risk factors, many cases, like Aubrie’s, occur sporadically, without any identifiable cause
Thyroid cancer commonly presents as swollen lymph nodes or nodules in the neck. Other symptoms can include vocal hoarseness, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing. However, these signs typically surface when the cancer is larger and invading surrounding tissues, making the disease quite silent until a late stage.
Treatment and Recovery
In Aubrie’s case, her proactive approach helped the doctors detect her cancer at an early stage. She underwent surgery to remove her thyroid and four lymph nodes where the cancer had spread. She may also have to take a one-time radiation pill to reduce the risk of recurrence.
It’s worth noting that while many patients respond well to treatment, doctors must closely monitor for recurrence. According to Dr. Sinclair, “One of the factors that influences whether the cancer comes back is the number of lymph nodes involved.”
Post-Treatment Life
Following her surgery, Aubrie has been recovering well, except for some lingering hoarseness. She plans to return to Hunter College for her final semester and then proceed to graduate school.
Reflecting on her journey, Aubrie advised others experiencing persistent swelling to consult a doctor. As she puts it, “A lot of people just attribute any type of (swollen) lymph node to stress. Even if it is nothing, it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Aubrie’s experience serves as a crucial reminder of the silent nature of thyroid cancer and the importance of not dismissing persistent, unusual symptoms. Her courage and proactive approach to her health have likely played a significant role in her current recovery, highlighting the value of early detection in managing this disease.
Lifestyle, Alternative Prevention, and Treatment Approaches
Adopting a healthier lifestyle and exploring alternative preventative measures can contribute significantly to the prevention and management of thyroid cancer.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can play a pivotal role in overall health and cancer prevention. A 2016 study found a link between diets high in fruits and vegetables and a reduced risk of thyroid cancer.
Similarly, sufficient iodine intake is crucial for thyroid health as it’s needed for the production of thyroid hormones. Foods like dairy, seafood, and iodized salt are great sources of iodine. However, it’s important to consult with a doctor before making major changes to your diet, especially if you have been diagnosed with thyroid disease or are at risk.
Exercise
Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, which is an important aspect of cancer prevention. While research directly linking exercise to reduced thyroid cancer risk is limited, maintaining a healthy weight can lower the risk of various types of cancer.
Alternative Treatments
While conventional treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are typically the mainstay of thyroid cancer treatment, some patients may also explore complementary and alternative therapies. These can include traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation.
Please note that while these approaches might help improve overall well-being and manage side effects of cancer treatment, they should not replace conventional cancer treatments. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any alternative treatment approach.
Screening and Regular Checkups
Prevention also involves early detection. Regular neck checks and ultrasounds can help catch thyroid abnormalities early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of various health conditions, including cancer. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels
Limiting Exposure to Radiation
Exposure to radiation, particularly during childhood, increases the risk of thyroid cancer. Hence, it’s crucial to limit unnecessary exposure to radiation, especially in medical settings, and use protective measures when exposure is unavoidable.
While the journey of dealing with thyroid cancer can be challenging, adopting a healthier lifestyle, routine screening, and the right treatment strategies can greatly aid in prevention and management. The courage and proactive approach to health, as shown by individuals like Aubrie, serve as an inspiration for others on a similar journey.
