Persistent Throat Tightness Mistaken for Gastric Issues—Woman Discovers Thyroid Can.cer by Accident

A woman experiencing persistent throat tightness and difficulty swallowing initially thought she had a stomach problem and went for a gastrointestinal endoscopy. To her surprise, the endoscopy showed her stomach was normal—but further tests revealed she had thyroid cancer.

Misdiagnosed for Years

According to Dr. Nguyen Van Thai (Oncology & Aesthetic Medicine, Hanoi), his clinic recently received a case of thyroid cancer—a diagnosis the patient had never considered. She suffered prolonged throat discomfort and trouble swallowing, assuming it was a symptom of digestive issues. However, once her stomach was ruled out, imaging and testing revealed the real culprit: thyroid cancer.

From this case, Dr. Thai strongly advises that instead of self-diagnosing and choosing to check only one area, people should undergo regular comprehensive health checkups.

The patient was shocked, wondering how she could be diagnosed with cancer without having any obvious symptoms. But Dr. Thai emphasized:

“When cancer starts showing symptoms, it often means it’s already progressed.”

This real-life example highlights the importance of early cancer screening and regular health checkups—not only for thyroid cancer but for cancer prevention in general, starting from the smallest signs.

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How to Prevent Thyroid Cancer in Daily Life

1. Limit Exposure to Ionizing Radiation
Exposure to radiation, especially in the head and neck area during childhood, increases the risk of thyroid cancer. If you’ve undergone radiation therapy or lived near a nuclear incident site, inform your doctor for regular monitoring.

2. Ensure Adequate Iodine Intake
Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid problems and raise cancer risk. In many countries, table salt is iodized to prevent this. Make sure you consume iodized salt and iodine-rich foods like seafood and dairy products.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese is associated with a higher risk of thyroid cancer. Follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly to keep your weight in a healthy range.

4. Avoid Smoking and Toxic Chemicals
Smoking and exposure to certain chemicals can increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Avoid tobacco and minimize contact with harmful substances in your home or workplace.

5. Get Regular Health Screenings
Thyroid cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages. Regular checkups are essential for detecting abnormalities—especially if you have a family history of thyroid disorders.

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Thyroid cancer has one of the best prognoses if detected early. By adopting preventive habits and getting regular medical screenings, you can greatly reduce your risk. Take charge of your health—and your family’s—starting today!