1 week post op partial thyroidectomy

[arriba]

I had partial thyroidectomy last week and am fine from a surgical standpoint but feel awful:  dizzy, lightheaded, shaky, suffering memory loss, weak, ringing in ears and feel like I am in another dimension.  How long can I expect these symptoms to last?  I have half of my thyroid remaining and understand it will function as the whole but I wonder if I should see an endocrinologist for the interim?

[charlotte37]

I'm sorry I can't offer you advice, but I'm wondering if you could help me.  I am meeting with a surgeon on Monday to schedule surgery to remove the right lobe of my thyroid due to a toxic nodule.  Could you tell me about the surgery experience?  I am very anxious about it.  When do you expect to be able to return to work.  Did your doctor recommend how much time you should take off?  Thank you in advance.

[rjl922]

I had a parial in May. I felt like that for about two weeks. My doc said it was from the anistesia. Did they do a frozen section of your other side? I have to go back in for the rest to be taken out because it is cancer. I would see a endo so they can get you back to normal with meds is you have to be on any? Take Care.

[Marla15]

A related discussion, partial thyroid removal was started.

[grmatf]

A related discussion, hot flashes after thryrod surgery was started.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

It may take 2-3 weeks to consistently feel back to normal.  With a partial, the levels will temporarily dip, then in most cases normalize.  Would talk to your surgeon and endocrinologist about these symptoms for a more complete evaluation.

[arriba]

I didn't find the actual surgery experience to be bad at all.  I went early am to hospital and  was first surgery.  I have had nausea following surgery so anesthesia gave extra nausea meds and it was not a problem.  I was surprised to wake up with no ice pack around my neck--some doctors order that.  Also did not have a drain and that is probably why my neck is a little tight right now.  I was able to walk to the bathroom that evening.    I spent one night in hospital and went home next am.  My memory was a little hazy at first and I barely remember coming home.  I have felt bad since coming home--weak, shaky, zoned out like I am in a twilight zone.  I had a bad episode of low calcium and was shaking so badly I could not control my hands, also numb and tingling around mouth.  Tums helped that.  I am 54, don't know if continued malaise is related to anesthesia or thyroid imbalance.  I am not working now, but can't imagine returning to work for at least another week or so.  Also, my throat has not been particularly sore nor did I have any speech problems.

[arriba]

My mass was a benign adenoma so I am lucky and get to keep remaining half.  Good luck with your remaining surgery and getting your meds balanced!