In very basic terms; in the womb, the thyroid gland begins near the back of the tongue. Gradually it descends down what is referred to as the "thyroglossal duct" (thyro indicating thyroid and glossal pertaining to the tongue) past the hyoid bone, and lands typically at the base of the neck. USUALLY this duct disintegrates before birth, however, sometimes it remains open. In those instances, such as my own, there is a likelihood of developing a cyst along the duct. Treatment involves removal of the entire duct and part of the hyoid bone (EEK!) via what is referred to as the "sistrunk procedure." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyroglossal_duct_cyst
I had an inkling this would be the ultimate diagnosis for me. My primary care practitioner(PCP) didn't seem very concerned with it's urgent removal, but referred me to an otolaryngologist for this coming Tuesday. The cyst itself is sore, sometimes it even throbs. It moves while I swallow and also when I move my tongue. This has led my tongue to also be sore, and tired for lack of a better word. I've also been nauseous, have had trouble swallowing for some time now, earaches, and more recently-great difficulty breathing. I sure am ready to get it assessed by the surgeon and then yanked out, but I am nervous about the anesthesia, as I've never been under before. PCP also diagnosed me with asthma Wednesday, so now I'm on an inhaled steroid. Hopefully that doesn't affect the outcome of the surgery. I was always "healthy" before this, so this will be my first operation ever. I have insurance, but I've heard crazy rumors about it being considered "pre-existing" by some companies. PFFT! The duct is supposed to atrophy before birth! I'm, therefore, very worried about all the bills I might receive once everything is said and done. The peace of mind knowing its (hopefully) benign will be more than worth the expense, though. Wish me luck! I'll be reporting back here.
I had an inkling this would be the ultimate diagnosis for me. My primary care practitioner(PCP) didn't seem very concerned with it's urgent removal, but referred me to an otolaryngologist for this coming Tuesday. The cyst itself is sore, sometimes it even throbs. It moves while I swallow and also when I move my tongue. This has led my tongue to also be sore, and tired for lack of a better word. I've also been nauseous, have had trouble swallowing for some time now, earaches, and more recently-great difficulty breathing. I sure am ready to get it assessed by the surgeon and then yanked out, but I am nervous about the anesthesia, as I've never been under before. PCP also diagnosed me with asthma Wednesday, so now I'm on an inhaled steroid. Hopefully that doesn't affect the outcome of the surgery. I was always "healthy" before this, so this will be my first operation ever. I have insurance, but I've heard crazy rumors about it being considered "pre-existing" by some companies. PFFT! The duct is supposed to atrophy before birth! I'm, therefore, very worried about all the bills I might receive once everything is said and done. The peace of mind knowing its (hopefully) benign will be more than worth the expense, though. Wish me luck! I'll be reporting back here.
