What to expect after thyroid surgery?

What to expect after thyroid surgery

1. Pain

Thyroid surgery is a major surgery, so it is to expect pain after the operation. The pain is usually worst in the first few days, but it should gradually improve over time. You will be given pain medication to help manage the pain.

2. Swelling

Swelling is also common after thyroid surgery. The swelling is usually worst around the incision, but it can also extend to the neck, face, and chest. The swelling should gradually improve over time.

3. Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is common after thyroid surgery. This is because the nerves that control the muscles of the larynx (voice box) can be damaged during surgery. The difficulty swallowing should gradually improve over time, but it can take several months or even years for the nerves to fully recover.

4. Voice changes

Voice changes are also common after thyroid surgery. This is because the nerves that control the vocal cords can be damaged during surgery. The voice changes can include hoarseness, breathiness, or a weak voice. The voice changes should gradually improve over time, but it can take several months or even years for the nerves to fully recover.

5. Numbness or tingling

Numbness or tingling around the incision or in the neck, or shoulder is common after thyroid surgery. This is because the nerves that supply the skin in these areas can be damaged during surgery. The numbness or tingling should gradually improve over time, but it can take several months or even years for the nerves to fully recover.

6. Hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism is a condition that occurs when the parathyroid glands are damaged or removed during surgery. The parathyroid glands produce a hormone that regulates the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. Hypoparathyroidism can cause low levels of calcium and high levels of phosphorus, which can lead to a variety of symptoms including muscle cramps, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, and seizures. Hypoparathyroidism is usually treated with calcium and vitamin D supplements.

7. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy

After thyroid surgery, you will need to take thyroid hormone replacement therapy to replace the thyroid hormone that your thyroid gland is no longer able to produce. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is typically taken in the form of a pill once a day. The dose of thyroid hormone you need will be determined by your doctor.

8. Follow-up care

You will need to see your

doctor regularly after your surgery for follow-up care. These appointments will allow your doctor to monitor your progress and check for any complications.

Recovery from thyroid surgery can be a long and challenging process, but most people eventually make a full recovery.