Annual Thyroid blood tests

Alichapp said:

. Does anyone on here know whether he ought to be referred?

No. His HNC clinic will refer him to his GP. It’s a primary care issue now. 

 RadioactiveRaz 

Hazel, I never kept my consent form but I know you keep everything. Have a look whether thyroid issues are mentioned in the side effects would you? 

Alichapp said:

He has never been offered a regular thyroid test after surgery and radiotherapy

Most of us arrange this ourselves 

I have never been offered blood tests of any kind at my reviews. All I’ve had is a neck poke about a visual mouth check and a scope 

Macmillan mention it here under “tiredness” 

www.macmillan.org.uk/.../late-effects-of-head-and-neck-cancer-treatments

Alichapp said:

I am a bit concerned about other symptoms he is developing - such as sore throat - but don't want to worry him

If your husband has a sore throat lasting more than three weeks he should definitely go back to be checked out. He is a long time clear so it’s likely nothing but you know it makes sense to put your minds at rest 

Sorry, Hazel, for multi posts. 

HunNi worries I’ve just dug about my consent form will scan it and send to you .thing is it’s 5 year old carbon copy feint. But Jihn also remembers Dr Sen verbally saying it. Plus when I was sent to Pinderfields for ent consultants very De ember I was told to go down to phlebotomist with a pink slip and a few days later Lisa my Macmillan nurse rang with results. 
Hazel x

So it’s a significant risk that is pointed out on our consent forms. They are pretty standard. 
Thanks 

Hi Alichapp Different trusts have differing policies. Ive  just dug out my consent form and it does say under significant issues thyroid. I was transferred back to local hospital and every  December  was referred  for bloods. Sadly we have to be proactive I’ve found this I remember year 2  I was taken off the cancer referrals by the bean counters I soon kicked up a fuss. My consultant wasn’t aware so I got others out. Back on. Once throws tablets are given and the dosage correct everyone I know is ok 

As for sore throat the rule of thumb still applies if he’s had it 3 weeks see gp,likewise ulcers lasting longer than 3 weeks unexplained weight loss, lumps in neck..

hope all turns out ok

hugs Hazel x

Thanks Hazel - we were vaguely aware that thyroid issues were a risk, but blood tests were never suggested, and the GP had never heard of thyroid issues as a side effect of radiotherapy to neck (Bizarre but true). He checked on line when we suggested it as a causal factor, and decided there might be something in it.

He's on the tablets now, but with no follow up tests to see if they have got the balance right - has tried to book a cholesterol test but the GP practice isn't able to offer them at the moment. It is crazy. 

That’s crazy re cholesterol tests ,I had mine on Tuesday no issues. From me sorry my friends whi are in the tablets had a review atb3 months as it takes time to get the tablets into our system. 

Hazel