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Ultrasound tests use sound waves to create images of the internal organs. Thyroid ultrasounds are frequently ordered to evaluate new nodules or suddenly changing nodules, large thyroid glands or abnormal thyroid function tests.

In the thyroid gland picture to the right, the thyroid gland is the gray speckled tissue on either side and above the black hole (which is your trachea filled with air). The two other black holes on the left and right underneath the thyroid tissue are vessels.

Your thyroid gland is located just below your Adam's apple and is vital in producing hormones such as T4 and T3. People with overactive thyroid gland - called hyperthyroidism -  have symptoms related to racing heartbeats, sweating, tremors, thinning hair, losing weight, bulging eyes. Those with under active thyroid gland - called hypothyroidism -  experience weight gain, tiredness, feel cold, and may have dry skin, among other symptoms.

Your doctor's order may also read "r/o nodule", "r/o tumor" or "enlarged thyroid", for example.

(FYI "r/o" stands for rule out)

Below are some common uses for thyroid ultrasounds.

• Examine new thyroid nodules felt during a physical exam.
  
• Evaluate for suddenly growing nodules of the thyroid 
• Evaluate enlarged thyroid gland
• Examine the thyroid if it is not functioning properly (either under or overactive)
  
• Use ultrasound to help guide a biopsy of a thyroid nodule or mass

Below is a brief outline of the procedure.

1. After you sign in to the Radiology office, you'll be taken to the ultrasound room.
2. An ultrasound technician will perform the test.
3. Once you enter the room, you will lie down on a bed/gurney.
4. The technologist will ask you to pull down your collar or loosen your shirt.
5. He or she will place a a warmed gel solution over the skin of your neck.
6. The technologist will use an ultrasound probe and glide it over the neck and take pictures.
7. You may be asked to turn your head for the technologist to get a better look at the edges of the thyroid and nearby tissues.
8. The technologist may ask the Radiologist doctor to review the scan before you leave.
9. An official report is generated by the Radiologist in about 24-48 hours.

If you are insured thyroid ultrasounds are covered. However, for uninsured patients these tests can be quite expensive. You can expect to pay anywhere between $200 and $500 for this test.

Have you had a thyroid ultrasound? What was it like? Please leave your comments below: