TT Post Surgery - neck discomfort

[ClaireD]

Hi guys.  I am new to this forum and was hoping you could help.  I had a total thyroidectomy 2 weeks ago and though the wound is healing really well I still, every now and then, fell like I am being choked!  The swelling has gone down but around the wound there is still hard scar tissue (I assume its scar tissue).  It feels as though there is a lump in my throat and also feels tight.  Is this quite common?  Also, I am due to go on a 4.5hr flight to Cyprus on Wednesday next week and am really worried that the cabin pressure on the plane will cause the scar tissue in my neck to swell and make me feel even more like I am choking.  I get quite anxious about flying anyway so this isn't helping.  My surgeon has said it is okay for me to fly but I don't know who else to speak to about this.  I could call my Endocrinologist but I feel like I am being paranoid and a nuisance, but at the same time I don't know how I am meant to feel after the operation as nobody tells you when you are in hospital.  HELP!!!

[ChitChatNine]

HI and welcome to our community!  There are tons of internal stitches which take up to, if not even more than, 6 weeks to heal.  So swelling inside can happen I think.  I'd discuss with your doctor again about your apprehension and maybe ask about taking an anti inflammatory which may help that awful tight sensation.

Keep us posted --- I'm glad you are able to fly only a few weeks post op.  Be sure you have talked to your doc about the meds, etc. because after the first 2 weeks you've used up your nat'l thyroid hormone stores.

C~

[ClaireD]

Thank you for your advise.  I tried to make a doctors appointment as suggested but they are rubbish.  Earliest I could get is 2 weeks time!!! So, went to the pharmacy and they recommended Ibuprofen.  I will try that over the weekend and if still no better on Monday will beg the surgery for an appointment.  I have my supply of thyroid tablets but have been told they can take up to 5 weeks to work which is probably why I am feeling lethargic and generally down in the dumps.  I am so pleased I have found this forum as I was feeling a little lost and overwhelmed, not knowing what to expect pre and post surgery.

Cx

[aileron1]

Hey Claire, I just saw your post about the neck thing.  Mine is like that too, feels kind of hard and swollen around the scar.  I have found that warm compresses, exercises to stretch the neck gently (kind of like rolling your head around) and a little gentle massage seems to help.  I feel like I am choking too sometimes, but mostly when I lay on my back.  Though for me, I had that too when the thyroid was there because the nodules were so big.  (so kind of used to it!)
Good luck,
Jeanne