Post Thyroid Surgery Care Tips
If have undergone or plan to undergo thyroid surgery, it is essential that you follow the post thyroid surgery guideline that your doctor has set out for you. This will ensure decreased risk for thyroidectomy complications and will improve your chances of a more successful recovery.
Post operative care will depend on your individual circumstances. In general, you should feel a sense of improvement each day after you undergo the procedure. If questions arise during your convalescence period, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. You will also be asked to commit to a follow up appointment a few weeks after the procedure so that your physician can assess your progress.
Since an incision will have been made in your neck, you will be advised not to scrub or soak the area when bathing. You may notice a bit of swelling around the scar. Sometimes, slight bruising occurs as well. It is also important to be prepared for the possibility that the scar may become pink in color, may harden and become tight a few weeks after the procedure. These issues should resolve in a few months time.
Individuals who undergo thyroid surgery are placed on thyroid hormone replacement medications. Since all or a portion of the thyroid gland will be removed, your body will still need to maintain the proper thyroid hormones levels. To do this, thyroid hormone replacement medications are essential. To ensure optimum function, make sure that you take your medications as advised by your doctor.
If you experience pain after surgery, it is important to only take the pain medications prescribed by your doctor. Fortunately, most patients do not experience a great amount of pain following the procedure, although discomfort when swallowing is common in the following days after surgery. If pain persists or worsens, discuss pain management options with your doctor, and keep your doctor updated with any progress or lack thereof.
If you have questions or concerns about thyroid problems or thyroid removal surgery see your local doctor who will arrange for you to see a thyroid surgeon.
