Looking after your health starts with knowing your body and recognizing when something feels different. One important area to watch is your thyroid. This small but mighty gland plays a big role in how you feel every day, affecting your energy, metabolism, and overall well-being.
You can check your thyroid health at home in just a few minutes. All you need is a mirror and a glass of water.
January marks an important time to focus on thyroid health and awareness. Your thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, plays a significant role in regulating your metabolism, energy, and overall well-being. When it's not working as it should, you might notice unexplained weight changes, persistent fatigue, mood shifts, or changes in heart rate. Some people also experience difficulty swallowing or hoarseness that won't go away.
How to Check Your Thyroid at Home:
First, get a handheld mirror and stand in front of a bigger mirror, or make sure you have good lighting. Look at the lower front part of your neck, just below your Adam's apple and above your collarbone. This is where your thyroid sits.
Tilt your head back slightly, take a sip of water, and swallow while watching your neck in the mirror. Your thyroid will move up as you swallow, which can help you spot anything unusual. If you don’t see anything right away, that’s okay; it might take a few tries to get used to what you’re looking for.
Next, gently use your fingertips to feel for any lumps, bumps, or anything that feels different. Your thyroid should feel smooth and even. It's normal to feel your windpipe and other neck structures, so pay attention to anything that seems new or has changed since your last check. Does the area feel tender? Do you notice any unusual masses? These are the details worth noting.
When to Contact Astera Cancer Care:
Notice any swelling, lumps, or changes in your neck's appearance? Reach out to us. Our team is here to prioritize quick appointments for thyroid consultations if you're experiencing difficulty swallowing, hoarseness that won't go away, or any combination of the symptoms we mentioned earlier.
At Solara, our team can perform a thorough examination and order any necessary tests, like ultrasounds or biopsies, to determine whether what you're experiencing requires treatment. While self-checks are valuable for monitoring your body, they're not a substitute for professional evaluation. Think of them as an early warning system that tells you when it's time to come see us.
Set aside a few minutes this month to check your thyroid and try to make it a regular habit. If you have any concerns during your self-check, contact Solara Health to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists. Your awareness of your own body is one of the most powerful tools you have. We're here to support you with expert care whenever you need it.
published: Dec. 30, 2025, 6:56 p.m.