The thyroid gland is in front of the upper portion of the trachea. It is a small, ductless, bilobed, butterfly-shape gland. Unless you have an enlarged thyroid gland, you might have difficulty feeling it or finding it yourself. One way physicians palpate, or feel, the thyroid involves approaching the patient from behind and using both hands. They reach around to the front of the patient, and using three fingers, gently press on the sides of the trachea, meeting the fingers of both hands near center, while the patient is asked to swallow. The swallowing creates a bulge that makes the thyroid more apparent.
Instructions
1. Stand facing a mirror large enough to show your head, neck and chest. Look into the mirror and try to locate your thyroid just by visual inspection. It is on the front of your neck and above the breastbone. It is commonly not visible, although you might be able to find its approximate physical location. This is an internal gland and manual palpation might not be successful. If you have a goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid, finding it by sight or feel might be easier. People with large layers of fat around their necks can have difficulty in locating the thyroid, even with a goiter.
2. Palpate the thyroid to determine its approximate size and location. Bend both arms at the elbows, with your fingers outstretched. Face the palms inward, and place both hands onto the sides of the trachea, fingers nearly touching. Remember to keep a very light and gentle touch. Use the index, middle, and ring fingers to feel the sides of the trachea.
3. Swallow repeatedly to help find the thyroid. If the thyroid is enlarged, the tissue might be apparent on the sides of the trachea. If the thyroid is too small, it will be difficult to impossible to find. This test is most successful when performed by a trained medical practitioner. Do not be surprised or too discouraged if you are not successful.
Tags: sides trachea, both hands, have difficulty
