Normal Life after a total benign thyroidectomy?

[MrsRice]

I'm absolutely terrified!  I was very cool with my decision to have my entire thyroid removed as I have a 5.5 centimeter non-malignant nodule on the right side and three 1.3 centermeter non-malignant nodules on the left.  I was resigned to the fact that I could live without a thyroid with the proper hormone replacement.  I made the mistake of telling a very over dramatic friend of mine and she of course informed me that  EVERYONE she knew that ever had a total thyroidectomy got cancer soon after!  I keep reading about people with these weird symptoms of chronic fatigue, massive weight gain, massive weight loss, its too much!  Has anyone had a total thyroidectomy and lead a normal life afterwards?  Please let me know.

[Dmchone]

I had my thyroid removed around 18 years ago.  You will struggle finding the correct amount of medication.  Get a good thyroid doctor.  Some general doctors only go by blood tests (I had that problem) and anything can throw off a thyroid test.  Also I fast before my tests, try that.  Don't eat or drink coffee for a good hour after you take your pill in the morning.   Am I going to sit on here and say it easy...maybe for some, but most no.  make sure you take Vit d-3 and iron everyday.  Hope this helps.

[mysteerain719]

I was looking for forums found this one, I had total tr just three days ago, but had a couple minor complications during surgery so it's a little more painful recovery, but doing well, doc had to dig around some old very large scar tissue from a previous cspine surgery said whole area was almost closed off between the "grapefruit" on the thyroid and the scar tissue had hard time getting around vocal chord to avoid damage surgery took 3 and a half not two hours,but I woke up with a hoarse but useable voice so happy there, pain getting better, but more localized now, I can feel where he had to "dig" things out, already seeing improvement in some other areas though, getting more air when i sleep, I'm guess my sleep apnea is not as bad,can eat most real foods in small portions, my biggest irritation seems to be keeping things from rubbing on the incision which is about 3 inches, so here's hoping it continues to get better , felt ok but pretty sore first two days, tired today.. diaphram sore, and breast bone area still pretty bruised, but otherwise ok... I wish you all luck and would love to come back by and see any updates... thanks for the info everyone posted it was a great help.

[Witchyaquarian]

I would love to have something positive to say,but I don't. I hope you found some normalcy since this was eight years ago. I had my thyroidectomy done in August of 2018, it is now late September and my levels are still off. I feel tired,dizzy, headaches, brain fog, and like I'm going to pass out all the time. I pray every day that I can get through teaching for the day and not pass out. For the last 2 week's someone has had to drive me to work because of these symptoms. I started not feeling well in July, and I honestly have not felt like myself since that first thyroid storm. I feel like I'm slowly dying.

[gimel]

Sounds like you are not being treated adequately.  Please post your thyroid related test results and reference ranges shown on the lab report.  Also, if tested for Vitamin D, B12 and ferritin, please post those also.  What thyroid med are you taking and what is the daily dosage?

[thewonderpigs]

Hi... I had a non cancerous goiter (similar size to yours) took 12 years to get that size, started out the size of an apricot seed and ended up about the size of a golf ball ... had a biopsy when first noticed it... was clear... over the years was having blood tests every 6-12 months... all thyroid levels were normal... never bothered me at all, had no trouble swallowing or breathing (I  believe because it was growing outwards, so wasn't affecting my windpipe or vocal cords...) The past 12 months my thyroid levels became slightly high, though not enough to be concerning or need medication... it was time to see a specialist... After reading my history of ultrasounds, growth rate, levels, etc... He decided to remove my thyroid as it was only going to get bigger and levels may start changing... so he put me on a 12 month waiting list as I was not an urgent case... time crept up... surgery day came, 1st Aug 2017... (27 days before my 50th Birthday) all went well, total removal of thyroid, 2 of my 4 parathyroid glands were re-transplanted (slightly damaged) calcium levels were a bit low for first 24 hours, started calcium supplements twice daily... and was on 1 tablet (100m) of Thyroxine daily... 2 weeks later blood test showed normal calcium levels... continued calcium tablets for another 4 weeks... another blood test showed normal calcium levels... didn't need to take them anymore... had my 6 week blood test after thyroid removal (mid Sept 2017)  all good... doing another one end of Dec 2017 to check levels... I  will admit that before my surgery I was nervous and anxious and asked myself if I was going to live a normal life after...Since I had the surgery, I've had smooth sailing... no side effects, no abnormal simptoms, picked up where I left off.. eating healthy, exercising daily, back at work doing normal duties... there is happy endings for some... I wish you all the best and for anyone else in a similar situation... everyone is different... some may be luckier than others.... stay positive, stay healthy and above all stay happy... Georgia  (Australia)

[Kasponkie1]

Thank you. I needed to hear this post today.

[IndyJules48]

I needed to read this, too! I'm looking at surgery in about four weeks. No cancer found, negative for Graves and Hashimoto's, just a very large thyroid that has been getting bigger for a very long time. Total removal is recommended and I have been really nervous about whether it needs to happen - what life will be like afterwards. I pray my story is similar to yours.

[Mc1227]

If there's suspicion, you should have it removed.  It's really not that bad and better than waiting too long and having your lymph nodes jeopardized.  Two biopsies I had showed no cancer but huge nodules. Once removed, pathology showed small cancer cell.  Glad I decided to have it removed.  

[gimel]

For the most part hypothyroid patients are inadequately medicated because their doctors only pay attention to TSH and FT4 compared to reference ranges.  That does not work for most hypo patients.  A good thyroid doctor will treat  a hypo patient clinically, by testing and adjusting Free T4 and Free T3 as needed to relieve symptoms, without being influenced by resultant TSH levels.   Symptom relief should be all important, not just test results, and especially not TSH results when on thyroid med.  A hypo patient's medication dosage should be adequate to eliminate any signs/symptoms of hypothyroidism, without creating any signs/symptoms of hyperthyroidism.  Most hypothyroid patients seem to need  FT4 at least at mid-range, and FT3 in the upper third of its range, and adjusted from there as needed to relieve symptoms.

In addition, hypo patients are frequently deficient in Vitamin D, B12 and ferritin.  So those need to be tested and optimized.  D should be at least 50 ng/mL, B12 in the upper end of its range, and ferritin should be at least 100.  

You can read all about this and more in the following link.  I highly recommend reading at least the first two pages, and more, if you want to get into the discussion and scientific evidence for all that is recommended.  You can also use it as a guide to make sure you get the tests and treatment you need.  If your doctor refuses to treat clinically, then you will need to find a good thyroid doctor that will do so.  Note that does not necessarily mean an Endo.

http://www.thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/TUK_PDFs/diagnosis_and_treatment_of_hypothyroidism_issue_1.pdf

If you would like us to assess your current lab test results, please post them, along with reference ranges shown on the lab report.  Also, please tell us of the symptoms you have.  

[Shandae]

Yes I had a TT on 4/20/17. At first it was hell with the neck pain.  Then it was hell because my levels were in the toilet.   Then a month later, I started on hormone replacement.   I felt better in June.  It's ,July all my symptoms are back.  Anxiety all the time nausea.   Then the funniest thing.  I feel hot inside but I am so cold.  Not in menapause.  I am so discouraged.  One step forward and three steps back.  The worst part is my family thinks I am cured.  I am just lazy now.  Keep in mind I have a full time job as a nurse.  I am literally about to lose my mind

[Optimisticflorida]

Are you feeling better now?

[gimel]

Just wanted to make sure you are aware that the best way to treat a hypothyroid patient is clinically, by testing and adjusting Free T4 and Free T3 as needed to relieve symptoms, without being influenced by resultant TSH levels.  Also, you should be aware that hypo patients taking T4 meds like Synthroid often find that their body does not adequately convert the T4 to T3, resulting in Free T3 levels that are too low to relieve hypo symptoms.  Most doctors don't understand these issues and will only prescribe T4 meds and only pay attention to TSH and adjust the dose accordingly.  This doesn't work.  

You can get some useful info by reading at least the first two pages of the following link, and more if you are interested in the analysis and scientific evidence supporting the six suggestions on page 2.

http://www.thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/TUK_PDFs/diagnosis_and_treatment_of_hypothyroidism_issue_1.pdf

Please continue to let us know how you are doing.  We will be glad to help interpret test results and help in any way we can.  

[ButterfliesRfree]

Just had a TT yesterday. Had multinodular thyroid, which was causing choking/breathing problems, especially when sleeping. Was on low dose of Synthroid-now needed it adjusted to higher dose. Calcium levels are low, working on that now. Agree that horror stories scared me, too, but making positive dietary changes, paying attention to exercise, and looking for positivity. Not feeling good stinks, but allowing negativity to creep in doesn't help me. Don't know where this journey will take me, but am sure it will be to a good place because that's where I'll be choosing to go. Might not be easy, but will work toward that result with everything I have. You are all in my prayers - good luck to us all!

[Wysdym]

How are you? What is the update? TT tomorrow! :)

[TTapril]

Just had to April 21 and one parathyroid removed. multinodular and hyperthyroidism. So far doing well except some swelling in ankles and blood pressure is a little high. Are you still doing well?

[gimel]

Thanks for the feedback.  You had quite an experience.  Glad you are doing well after all that.  I just wanted to mention to you to keep an eye on your thyroid status by always testing for both Free T4 and Free T3 every time you go in for tests.   TSH is basically irrelevant when taking thyroid medication.  The most important indicator of your thyroid status is symptoms, followed by Free T4 and Free T3 levels (not the same as Total T4 and T3).  Also, patients taking T4 meds often find that their body does not adequately convert the T4 to T3.  Since T3 is metabolized in all the cells of the body, adequate T3 is vital.  If you start having symptoms that relate to being hypothyroid, and your Free T3 is significantly lower in its range than your Free T4 level, that would indicate lack of conversion of T4 to T3 and the need to consider adding some T3 med.  Many of our members say that Free T4 needs to be at the middle of the range, at minimum, and Free T3 in the upper part of its range, as needed to relieve symptoms.    

[Charliexxoo]

Hi. Just thought I'd share my TT story. Within 10 weeks of identifying my goitre, with my cystic nodules growing at a rapid speed of over 1cm every 4 weeks, no biopsy done prior...those bad boys had to be removed quickly as they covered the entirety of my thyroid (like a star speckled sky) ...noting my thyroid functioned next to perfectly ha...just my luck! Im now edging into week 9 of having no thyroid...thyroxine dosage has been spot on since day one after surgery...had no dramas there, thank goodness. My hairy scaries is with the calcium deficiency ...my parathyroids dont seem to be doing their job ...my body crashed 2 days after surgery as a result of ...lets say life-threatening low levels ...causing my body to go into ...(I believe its called...) tetany shock ...not such a common reaction but enough is known to attend to medically (calcium infusion. I became an acute/criticsl ICU patient, stationed with a medical personnel by my side for 26 hours ...no calcium = high risk heart failure. So since then I am on vit d tablets each morning and calcium tablets 3 times a day...with no immediate future outlook of coming off these. To be reassessed in 3 months. Had a couple of calcium deficiency " tingles" (symptoms/signs =not good) but back on track. Other than that!...life is pretty normal for me. Im definitely getting stronger & closer to being the normal me (that takes 7.5 tablets daily ...inclusive of my thyroxine). It's a small price to pay to be functioning in every day life, waking up to seeing my babies beautiful faces. Im glad I had the surgery. Oh! Did I mention? ...results came back ...they found a 1mm cancerous spot on my engorged thyroid....phew!! Fingers crossed that's all the badness taken out of me :) If not...I'm going to treasure every moment! Take care ... smile ...life could be far worse!!

[nazmia]

Hi, I am right now debating this as im due for surgery in 3 weeks, only have left side as other side removed due to large goiter 4 years ago, now i have 3 nodules on remaining half and fna came back as susicious for papillary carcinoma...
I am a healthy person with 3 kids and dnt suffer with any health issues or thyroid issues and it just gets to me that a functioning thyroid in a healthy body might need to be removed because they want to check it for cancer. ahhh, i am curious are you still in same position? still surgery free??

[Warrior27]

Hey i have the same issue and due for surgery soon. Im a bit hesitant since they said suspected cancer and not confirmed so there's dilemma to remove it or not. Coz even my blood test showed normal results. So i duno if it's really necessary to have an op to remove the whole thyroid.

[TZT]

It is based on TSH, FT3 and FT4 as well as how I feel.  I am now just over two months post TT and I have had a bit of a set back but I know it will get better. I just had my blood test last week and I am still waiting on the results.

[Miss459]

Hello,
I understand! I had a TT  09/15 and like you was fine with the idea of it. Then after surgery had a few issues (minor) adjusting to the meds. Then started freaking myself out thinking about having to take the meds forever!...Here we are a few months later and all is well. I kinda laugh about it now thinking back about how worked up I made myself. Yes, you have to take your meds forever! But you have to eat forever too ;) Best of luck! Everthing will be fine.

[PrincessMissy]

Great point, redheadaussie! I am waiting to have my own thyroidectomy in a couple of weeks, and I have a positive attitude about it. I have had 7 surgeries for osteoarthritis in the last few years, and I remember reading the horror stories about joint implants that didn't go well. I'm doing great with 2 knees and 1 shoulder implant! So I'll do well with thyroid removal, too!

[Shazama]

Wow just like me well except I only have a partial knee replacement in June last year and the TT last month. Good luck

[gimel]

When you say getting normalized on my meds, how are they evaluating your status and how much medication you need?  Is it based on your TSH level, or symptoms?

[Csj1981]

Male 34. I had a TT 14 months ago. Had issues getting the hormones right for an entire year. I blame the doctors for that. It was rough but manageable. I am now taking name brand synthroid (t4) and also liothyronine (t3) and my numbers have been good for 6 weeks. I feel way better now. Maybe not quite back to normal but way better. The doctors are very frustrating and act like its no big deal to be on medication the rest of your life getting blood work every 3 months or so. They also act like the medication is cheaper than it is. It has been frustrating but I'm accepting it now and startling to feel basically normal again. You'll be fine if you don't blame all of your problems on your thyroid and start letting them snowball. Eat right, drink less (or not at all anymore in my case) and just try to live a generally healthy and positive life and you will be fine. I think the horror stories me stay come from people who just focus on it to much and allow it to rule their lives. They usually hav a bunch of other medical problems to scape goat their issues on as well.

[TZT]

Male 45.  I just had my thyroid removed 5 weeks ago because of Hashimoto's and nodules.  I am still getting normalized on my meds but I am having some good days which I didn't happen at all before. I know there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  Like Csj above I eat healthy and completely cut out alcohol.  I have always exercised but it had become tough to do so the last few years as my symptoms got worse.  Fatigue is by far the worst of the symptoms.  

[Shazama]

Thanks for the positivity because all the negitve stuff really scares me. Like I don't know how I should feel after having my TT last month.

[ButterfliesRfree]

Just had a TT yesterday. Had multinodular thyroid, which was causing choking/breathing problems, especially when sleeping. Was on low dose of Synthroid-now needed it adjusted to higher dose. Calcium levels are low, working on that now. Agree that horror stories scared me, too, but making positive dietary changes, paying attention to exercise, and looking for positivity. Not feeling good stinks, but allowing negativity to creep in doesn't help me. Don't know where this journey will take me, but am sure it will be to a good place because that's where I'll be choosing to go. Might not be easy, but will work toward that result with everything I have. You are all in my prayers - good luck to us all!

[art4ind]

What did you end up doing? Ihave pre cancerous follicular cells also.  2.8 at largest point (1 inch)  Ive alsoread horror stories and dont know what to do.  

[gimel]

Wow you have really been through a tough time.  Glad you are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  I just wanted to point out that you need to make sure that they always test you for both Free T4 and Free T3 every time you go for tests.  Many members say that Free T4 needs to be at the middle of its range, at minimum, and Free T3 in the upper third of its range, as needed to relieve symptoms.  If meds adequate to relieve symptoms suppresses your TSH, don't believe the doctor if he says you have become hyper, unless you do have hyper symptoms, due to excessive levels of FT4 and FT3.  Suppression of TSH occurs most of the time when taking adequate doses of thyroid med.  In fact TSH is basically a useless test when taking thyroid med like you are.  

In addition, I just wanted to mention that even if your FT4 and FT3 levels are optimal, there are other factors that can cause symptoms.  Hypo patients frequently do not produce enough stomach acid, so there can be poor absorption of vitamins and nutrients.  Resultant low Vitamin D, B12 and ferritin can cause symptoms that mimic hypothyroidism.  Low D and ferritin can adversely affect metabolism of thyroid med.  D should be about 55-60, B12 in the very upper end of its range, and ferritin should be about 70 minimum.  Another factor to investigate, if you should not achieve symptom relief is cortisol.  Cortisol needs to be in the upper quarter of its range.  If it is too high it is an antagonist to thyroid hormone.  And last, if conditions are such that the body produces an excess of Reverse T3, which is a mirror image molecule of T3, but is biologically inactive, that can interfere with Free T3 and also cause symptoms.  

So just in case we didn't hear from you again, I just wanted to make sure you are aware that treating hypothyroidism can be a lot more than just prescribing T4 medication.   If we can help in any way please let us know.  

[ginanell]

I had hashimotos for years with sx of hypothyroidism which became much worse past 3 years.  Extreme fatigue, loss deep tendon reflexes, low basal metabolic rate (measured in office by breathing into machine), constant ears ringing, pain in bones in feet, virtually every bone and muscle ached, brain fog, intolerant to heat...  thyroid antibodies only 58, (later down to 15 prior to TT)  Ultrasound discovered 2 cm nodule and had bx which showed hashimotos with hurthle cells.  I was told by PCP that I did not have hashis (bc antibodies not high enough) also ENDO told me same. So I went to MANY doctors trying to determine why I felt so bad and no one would treat since thyroid labs always normal range.  All I can figure is that since I had hashis for so long, antibodies eventually burned out after thyroid destroyed.  I cannot explain normal labs, that part has me stumped.  I work with a nurse who had same sx, normal labs and hashis.  She had a total thyroidectomy (TT) and said she felt great within a week.  I went to see her surgeon and he agreed that hashis patients do tend to feel better after ds thyroid removed.  Now to the surgery...I just had the TT 6 days ago.  The surgery lasted over 3 hours.  I will say the first 2-3 days were very rough.  I had tachycardia issues and tingling and twitching.  I felt horrible and frankly quite frightened even though I am a nurse of 30 years.  I kept the nurses and doctors hopping, calling on the call lite constantly wanting something else done.  They discovered my phosphorous was low and once that was replaced, the twitching stopped.  I had been taking calcium already and calcium levels normal.  They thought I was just being anxious and that it was my norm to freak out like that, but I knew something wasn't right.  Once the levels got straightened out, no more tach issues or muscle twitches.  I was supposed to come home next day but spent 2 nites.  I had surgery on a friday, which meant MY doctor was not available all weekend and I had to settle for some other doctor who never said more than 10 words to me on sat/sun total.  The surgery residents were the ones that helped over the weekend.  I will say my faith has gotten me this far.  I prayed ALOT and still do and firmly believe God will completely heal my body. I told my husband I did not want to watch any news, or hear any bad news or be stressed at all, as I felt very emotionally weak and vunerable which is not like me.  As my husband told the doctors when they asked if I was just being overly anxious, he informed them that I was always the rock and nothing ever phased me.  But I cannot accept that title, GOD is my ROCK.  I recite Phillipians 4:6-13 and Isaiah 40:30-31 on a regular basis and I understand I have an enemy who would not like for me to regain my strength so that I can resume the ministry calling in my life.  I do not mean to ramble, but I focused on the positives.  The pain was minimal 3-4 on scale of 10, I had no bleeding or breathing complications.  I REFUSED to feel hopeless. I will say the pain in my feet bones etc, is completely gone and I am getting stronger everyday.  I am going to be patient and have 100% confidence in my Lord.  Not in me, but in Him.  I am still very weak, but I trust it will get better over time.  I do not see my doctor for 2 weeks and I will have alot of questions.  My iodine is low, so I may need T3 added, we will see.  He did not want to layer meds at first.  He wanted to see how I did on plain T4.  I insisted on Synthroid versus generic although the resident assured me there was NO difference.  I am on 137 mcg daily.  I will try to update again later.  Overall I am very optimistic and I give all the glory to HIM! I have been coughing ALOT, throat tickle from sinus drainage and intubation I suppose.  My throat/voice seems fine. I feared all the coughing would cause incision problems so I took clariten D...that was a mistake bc my HR went to 120;s and made me feel uncomfortable so I rested and had my son do reflexology on my arms and hands while I prayed.  HR went down to 95.  I am taking caltrate with D  twice daily and my regular vitamins.  I need to get off simple carbs for sure, I know that will help.  I weigh 205 and am 5'6 .  My weight has been stable for last 3 years, I can lose weight when I eat right, so I am hoping I still can.  I am 54 years old and post menopausal. If you have questions or comments feel free to email me at ***@**** or check website EternalLifeSupportGroup.  I have taken one month off from work so just taking it slow and thankful for every answered prayer!

[kgangel]

I am totally sick to my stomach with worry ever since reading patients problems after thyroidectomies.  I was ok before reading some of the horror stories.  had several opinions about whether I needed this or not and all agree I do.  I have a atypical biopsy with follicular cells, but can not tell for sure if cancer or not.  Hyperthyroid with nodules and a couple have started to grow a lot which is why they biopsied them.  Anyway I was also told that the surgery would be best rather then worry about nodules , now I am thinking I would rather worry about them or know for sure what is up with them then do the surgery.  I was however happy to finally read one good comment on how it worked well and went well for them.

[Crossroads45]

I am wondering if anyone had nodules and decided against surgery?  In the tons of research I have done, I have read a couple article on the epidemic of thyroidectomies.  I can understand if you have Graves, or Hashimotos or cancer for sure.  I have multiple nodules on both lobes, two are 1cm.  Biospy came by with one benign and one inconclusive. Dr wants to take my thyroid out, stating there is a 10 percent chance of cancer. I have refused. I don't go along with the when in doubt cut it out method.  In a years time, the nodules have not gotten any larger.  I have chosen to change my diet and monitor my nodules.  I am listening to my own instincts for a change.  Other than the nodules, I have no other issues.  All levels are normal and everything is working fine. I know surgery is a personal decision for everyone.  Just wondering if there is anyone else out there who elected not to have surgey.

[Asweeney78]

Hi, my story is similar to yours. My endo called it watchful waiting.... big lifestyle changes, diet etc.
5yrs on after not having an FNA for 4 years, recent biopsy revealed pap carcinomas on both lobes.... slow growing but surgergey for TT is my only option. Im stalling at the moment as i really wanna keep my thyroid.

[Informedchoices1]

4 years ago I was  told my neck seemed thick and that  I had a lump on the left side of my throat. I felt & saw nothing. 4 years later I was told it appeared I had a lump, but this time on the right side of my throat. I wore a headset  (earpiece) at work on that side. Bloodwork indicated elevated levels . This time I did notice a slight lump on my neck. Ultrasound revealed 7 cm nodule. FNA came back inconclusive due to "not enough stem cells to diagnose". ENT wanted to do surgery to remove right thyroid and diagnose. If no cancer, done. if cancer, go back in and remove left side. Explained altho surgery is pretty straightforward, did describe risks of damage to voice box or parathyroids.  I hesitated, did research, and decided due to not a confirmed cancer diagnosis and not having any issues, I would not rush into surgery. I need my voice for work. I adjusted my diet, etc. and stopped wearing the headset since it caused pressure in my ear to my throat. The lump appeared to decrease to the point of not being noticeable, and only swell whenever I had a cold or other viral infection. When I controlled that, all seemed fine.  A year and a half later, new bloodwork indicated normal levels. No hypo or hyper. Met with an endocrinologist while monitoring. Might do another FNA to try to get a more firm diagnosis. Also want to speak with a Naturopath/Holistic doctor for more possible options to consider. If cancer is confirmed or any issues arise, then I might consider thyroid surgery then. But since I've always have had allergies, sinus infections, periodontal disease, migraines, etc. over time and diet and life changes have controlled and practically eliminated these, I want to do all nonintrusive, natural options first and see how that goes.

[jazlin234]

Hi Roberts1264,

I have hashimoto's and got recently diagnosed. Since you had your surgery a year back, I wanted to know how your life has been post surgery. I am dying to hear some success stories, and hoping that you have one to tell.

[JulianneATL]

I just had a left lobectomy for a nodule (turned out benign adenoma, thankfully). I am 13 days post-op and looking for encouragement as the original poster. I see so much negativity on the internet, but have three friends that had tt  (two of them 30 years ago) and they are completely fine. I never even knew she had a thyroid history. Their scars are invisible, they take Syntroid and are bundles of energy, as well as being major community leaders. You would think I wold look at that encouragement.

I guess because I am two weeks out, I am still healing and even though I woke-up with a full voice, speaking loudly and in high tones, and sining do not work well right now. I am probably being too hard on myself and need time to heal.

I am not concerned so much about meds, because the surgeon believes my other half will pick up the work load and do fine. He has left even tiny amounts for people that have worked for them, so he feels an entire half should work. I pray so!

My main question is about recovery. I am looking for those who have fully recovered from surgery and how long it takes that throat tightness/lump in throat to go away, and the voice to come back fully. My surgeon says 6-12 weeks. I have walked every day since the day after surgery, take loads of vitamins, I am driving fine, and have full motion of my neck in all directions, but it feels a little tight when tight turning to the surgery side...although I can do it. My scar still has some swelling underneath it, but it will look good when healed, I believe, because the only redness I seem to have right now is some bruising. I also have extreme anxiety about this which is making me depressed.

Hoping for words of encouragement from people who have healed well and gone back to feeling normal and leading a normal life...post-surgery...I understand it took time for meds, but I mean from surgery.

Thank you for letting me vent. I am the mother of two very busy children and I have always lead a very busy, chaotic life, and I want it all back! I appreciate encouragement and then when I heal I can encourage others :)