Post surgical patient

[Nessie62]

I had a total thyroidectomy about 4 weeks ago.  I had hypothyroidism and suffered terribly with thyroiditis.  I am feeling nearly 100% better.  However, I am having pain up in my neck (jugular region and beneath my chin).  I am also having problems with tightness in the incision.  It feels as though someone has their hand against my throat.  I can eat and drink fine.  I do have problems talking (longterm and at different ranges), with general swallowing, and yawning.  Are these typical post-surgical symptoms that will go away in time or should I go back to the doc??

Thanks
Ness

[helsurf]

hi, i had my surgery 3 weeks ago and i could have written your post! i have all the same symptoms you describe, saw my surgeon today and he was happy said it was all pretty normal :)

I know what you mean though sneezing and yawning are really painfull!!

Hope it starts to ease of soon (for both of us :)

Take care  x xx

[hazelhurst]

The tightness can last for a year (mine did).  You might be numb there for some time, until the nerves connect up properly again.

[utahmomma]

Hi Ness

I had the same symptoms with both of my surgeries and they do go away in time.  They have to move/cut a lot of muscles, tendons, etc. to remove the thyroid and those structures can be sore.  I really felt it when I had to look over my shoulder (backing a car up), sneezing, or lifting my head off the pillow.    It took a few months for me but everything is 100% normal now.  Hope that your recovery goes as well.

Don't forget to put moisturizer (aloe vera, vitamin E, etc.) on the incision - it will help

[nissah46]

Glad you are feeling well.  Your tightness and tenderness is pretty normal.  Some voice problems can occur, as I had lost mine for 6 weeks.  Give it a little more time.
Trish