What to do if thyroid cancer causes shoulder and neck pain

Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor that originates from the thyroid follicular epithelium or parafollicular cells. There are many causes of shoulder and neck pain, including compression of tissues, invasion of peripheral nerves, bone metastasis, and lymph node metastasis. It is recommended to seek medical attention in a timely manner and receive timely treatment after the cause is identified to avoid delaying the disease.

1. Compression of tissues: Thyroid cancer can compress the neck tissues, such as the trachea and esophagus, causing symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, dyspnea, and shoulder and neck pain. Timely surgical treatment is required, such as total thyroidectomy, unilateral thyroidectomy, and lymph node clearance;

2. Invasion of peripheral nerves: Thyroid cancer can invade peripheral nerves, causing shoulder and neck pain. It is necessary to surgically remove the lesion and clear the lymph nodes at the same time, and decide whether radiotherapy or chemotherapy is needed based on the results of pathological examination;

3. Bone metastasis: When thyroid cancer metastasizes to the bone, it can cause shoulder and neck pain, bone pain, pathological fractures, joint pain, etc. Radiotherapy can be given, or zoledronic acid can be used as prescribed by the doctor to inhibit bone cell destruction. Drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also be used to relieve pain;

4. Lymph node metastasis: When thyroid cancer metastasizes to the lymph nodes, it can cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the shoulder and neck, compressing the nerves and causing shoulder and neck pain. Surgical treatment, such as radical thyroidectomy, and lymph node dissection can be given.

Therefore, when thyroid cancer occurs, you should seek medical attention in time, complete relevant examinations, and conduct treatment after a clear diagnosis. At the same time, you should maintain an optimistic attitude and avoid factors that may cause thyroid cancer, such as radioactive substances and genetics.