Thyroid Surgery for Graves
Find a Conversation
Thyroid Surgery for Graves
| Wed, 09-01-2004 - 11:41pm |
I am planning to have a total thyroidectemy because of hyperthyroidism (Graves Disease). Meds did not seem to be able to control it and my thyroid is extremely large with a lot of blood running through it. Also, I am having problems with my eyes. I was told by three specialists that if I had radioactive iodine I would need more than one treatment because my thyroid is so active and I would need to be on high doses of cortisone because my eyes would get worse from the treatment. Removal of the thyroid on the other hand would not cause my eyes to get worse but they may even improve. I am looking to hear from people who have gone through this surgery. Was your voice affected from the surgery? Were the calcium levels in your bones affected? How are you feeling now that more time has passed? Any other side effects from the surgery? Your feedback is most appreciated!

I've heard also RAI can make your eyes worse.
A friend of mine got the surgery done and she said they accidentally removed part or one of her parathyroid glands. The doc didn't tell her..or didnt know? And the next day when she got home her calcium levels dropped to zero and her body started to tighten up, her hands were rolled in her towards her wrists and she was stiff all over. She has to take a calcium pill now. Her voice is normal. She is fine now though.
Hope this helps! let me know how the surgery goes. (I am curious!) Below is a woman who got RAI, found it looking for info.
Thanks
April
http://www.mediboard.com/cgi-local/ubbcgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=001091;p=0