What happens if the thyroid gland does not function properly?
Thyroid hormone is important for regulation of body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a disease where the person affected has an under-functioning thyroid. When you have hypothyroidism, certain body functions slow down and may lead to fatigue, dry skin, and memory problems.
What are thyroid symptoms?
Symptoms of an overactive thyroid can include:
- nervousness, anxiety and irritability.
- hyperactivity – you may find it hard to stay still and have a lot of nervous energy.
- mood swings.
- difficulty sleeping.
- feeling tired all the time.
- sensitivity to heat.
- muscle weakness.
- diarrhoea.
How does removing your thyroid affect you?
If your entire thyroid is removed, your body can’t make thyroid hormone. Without replacement, you’ll develop signs and symptoms of underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Therefore, you’ll need to take a pill every day that contains the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid, others).
How long can you live without thyroid?
A person can go for many years without thyroid hormones. Indeed, people often go undiagnosed for decades despite suffering from hypothyroid symptoms.
How serious is thyroid surgery?
Risks specific to thyroid surgery rarely occur. However, the two most common risks are: damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerves (nerves connected to your vocal cords) damage to the parathyroid glands (glands that control the level of calcium in your body)
How do I prepare for thyroid surgery?
As a general rule, do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before, and arrive at least two hours before your scheduled surgery. Most often you can take your routine medications with a sip of water. Medication guidelines prior to surgery will be discussed at your pre-operative visit.