What happens when you have your thyroid removed?

If your entire thyroid is removed, your body can’t make thyroid hormone. Without replacement, you’ll develop signs and symptoms of underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Therefore, you’ll need to take a pill every day that contains the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid, others).

How is thyroidectomy done?

Once the thyroid gland is removed, the person takes replacement thyroid hormone to keep the body’s functions in balance. Thyroidectomy can be performed through an incision at the front of the neck, or through the mouth (scarless thyroidectomy).

Is thyroidectomy a major surgery?

A thyroidectomy is a treatment for a variety of diseases, disorders and conditions of the thyroid gland. A thyroidectomy is a common but major surgery with serious risks and potential complications.

How long does it take to recover from a thyroidectomy?

Most people are ready to return home within one day of surgery, but take off about two weeks from work to recover. You’ll need to refrain from heavy lifting or other tasks that can strain your neck for up to three weeks after your surgery.

Can a person live without a thyroid?

Thyroid disease is common, and in some cases may require removal of your thyroid (thyroidectomy). Fortunately, you can live without your thyroid. You will need long-term thyroid hormone replacement therapy to give you the hormone your thyroid normally produces.

How is life after thyroidectomy?

You will need to take at least one or two weeks to recover before you return to work and other daily activities. You should not lift any heavy objects for about 2 weeks after your operation to avoid any strain on your neck. Your neck is likely to be swollen and may feel hard and numb right after the surgery.

Can you live without your thyroid and no medication?

Aside from having your thyroid levels tested regularly and taking medication daily to give your body the thyroid hormone it needs, people without a thyroid live an otherwise normal life. Adjusting to life without your thyroid means taking medication and checking in with your doctor.

Is having no thyroid a disability?

To qualify for disability benefits, your thyroid gland disorder has to be severe enough to make you permanently and completely disability. Benefits are not available for partial disability. The thyroid is a small gland at the front of your neck.

What is life like after thyroid removal?

What foods to avoid if you have no thyroid?

Which nutrients are harmful?

• Soy foods: tofu, tempeh, edamame, etc.
• Certain vegetables: cabbage, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, spinach, etc.
• Fruits and starchy plants: sweet potatoes, cassava, peaches, strawberries, etc.
• Nuts and seeds: millet, pine nuts, peanuts, etc.

How long does it take to recover from thyroid surgery?

Although time off of work can differ depending on your overall health and the type of work you do, most people are able to go back to work within one to two weeks after thyroid cancer surgery. The average time is about a week.

What to expect before and after thyroid surgery?

What to Expect After Thyroid Surgery. The area around the scar will be sensitive to sunlight and may need to be covered when going outside for several months to a year following your operation. Your surgeon will alert you to the care of your wound. You will have the area dry for at around 48-72 hours following surgery for a thyroid condition.

What are the side effects of removing your thyroid?

Hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism,or a chronically under-active thyroid,is the most common side effect of thyroid removal surgery.

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