Many infections look like tumors. Many stomachs and intestines were cut when the only problem was H pylori infection. Many colon cancers were infections also. And many infections love to attack glands, especially adrenals and thyroid.
If you try to rewind the clock and go back all the way to your childhood, remembering every disease and especially strange symptom you might have had, it may lead you to the correct answer as to the cause of your symptoms.
It all usually takes many years to develop, and that's why going back as far as possible is necessary.