Thyroidectomy and Exercise

[bigkronos]

Hello. I'm a 39 yr male, active sportsman, avid weighlifter and bodybuilder since my early youth. I'm about to have a thyrodectomy and systrunk procedure, because of a nodule and thyroglossal cyst.

I'm really worried about the future of my active lifestyle, the implications on my bodybuilding and exercise.

How will the surgery and subsequent hypothyroidism affect me?

I'll appreciate your help! Thank you!

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

Would make sure you give it enough time to heal -- ask your surgeon for specifics.  With proper thyroid medication, there should be no significant effect on your training and sports.

[mbundgus]

Yes I agree you will probably feel better... and have more energy. I had a Thyroidectomy / and lymph nodes ... Removed 1976. Post Hodgkin's Desease (chemo and radiation) 1963. It was and still a Mental Challenge, not a Physical one for me.  For 31 years I have had no recurance of thyroid cancer. No weight issue.  Muscle mass is good. No hair or bone density loss. I work out, enjoy cardio and weight training.  I take 150mcg of levothyroxine. You're going to do Great.    
Mar

[malawi]

I am a 45yr old male and an avid weightlifter for the past 25 years.Had TT due to thyca in dec 06.started working out lightly 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.Took 4 months to get stabilized on 187mcg of synthroid.i feel no different then when i had a thyroid gland.If anything i feel i have more energy.Since my surgery i also have radically altered my diet.hope this helps and best of luck to you.
Roman

[tm514]

Your thyroidectomy should have no impact on your future lifestyle if allowed to heal completely before resuming normal activity (the weightlifting probably will have to wait for a while after surgery).  Likewise, the subsequent hypothyroidism should have no impact if you are able to stablize your thyroid hormone levels.  That is easy for some people and hard for others.  Being on synthroid should be just like having your body's own natural thyroid hormones.  

I had a TT almost 18 months ago.  It took one adjustment of meds to get my levels stable.  Now, I am more active than I was before - biking, golfing, doing step aerobics.

I hope  you are able to find as much success.