Hello friends. This is the first time I've visited this board and I've learned alot.

I'm 51 and about 4 or 5 months ago I noticed a node in my neck was swollen and hard, but because it was painless I didn't think anything of it. Then I realized that the cluster of 3 nodes beginning by the ear and progressing down the neck are all swollen, hard and painless. So, I started being a little concerned but because we were waiting on our new health insurance I've had to sit on it for 3 months. In that time I've read alot. I'm not one to diagnose myself through the internet however it did help me to "connect the dots".

I've gone from a size 20 to a size 8 over the last 8 months. I made some positive lifestyle changes and I was feeling pretty smug about my progress. Now I realize that it is highly unlikely that this weight loss is my doing. My legs and feet began itching unbearbly about 2-3 months ago - so badly that one time I scratched so hard I drew blood and left marks all over my legs. Even as I'm typing this I have to stop and scratch like a cat in the summertime!!! I've pretty much lost my appetite, but to be honest I'm not really fatigued. The lumps don't hurt and most days I am able to accomplish what I need to.

Having said all of that --- I'm not ignorant. Our insurance has just kicked in and I will be seeing a new physician as soon as I can get in. It looks like this is going to be one of life's bumps in the road, but I'm just at the starting line and really don't know anything yet.

Blessings to all of you who are in the heat of the race. Keep your eye on the prize and run well.

momhazzard

:D :wave: I'm new here too and just wanted to welcome you to the board. There's a great bunch of people here who understand what you're going through. :angel:

I'm hoping and praying that you can get this sorted out and get some answers to what's going on. You must be terrified, as I am but ask away. I've asked some pretty stupid questions. :confused:

Kayla

Hi, welcome to the board! I can understand your concern but it is too early to say exactly what the problem is. Self diagnosis is scary and very often incorrect! I am glad you have got your insurance sorted out so that you can now see a doctor.

Let us know how the appointment goes.

Yes, welcome. I've practically "lived" here on this forum, the last few months.
These are great people & are full of support and concern.
They're totally "priceless," in my book.
Good luck....will follow your progress.
S.

Thank you for responding to my post. I'm scheduled for a complete work up on the 3rd of July. In the meantime, I'm going to try to control my thought-life. Today has been difficult. It's an absolutely beautiful day here in Washington and I have next to no energy. I'm really hoping (and expecting) to find out all of this is related to my thyroidectomy from a couple of years ago. Maybe my thyroid hormones are all wacky again!:dizzy:

Thanks again for listening!

Hi momhazzard,

I'm Deb and I live in Battle Ground, WA. Sounds like you are on top of things. It may all be related to your thyroid. Stay cool today and let us know. My good thoughts are traveling North to you!

Deb ;)

Just thought I'd say hi. I know how scary it is when you don't know whats going on but hopefully you won't have to wait much longer. I do hope that what you're experiencing is connected to your thyroidectomy.
Amanda
xxx

Hello everyone. I just thought I would keep you posted (no pun intended)

I go in on weds the 11th for a biopsy of the lymph nodes in my neck. My family doctor offered this perspective: There are too many, they are too big, they have been there for too long to be "nothing". So, we're skipping a couple of steps and going straight to biopsy. I can't really say that any of this surprises me. The only thing I know for sure is that it's not "nothing" but somehow, in my "knower-er" I've always known that.

Anyway, thank you for your kind words. I do hope that I will be able to post good news very soon.

That's a question....how long does it usually take to get biopsy results? Are the biopsies usually needle or incision?

thanks! Mom