hu,
i have to go into hospital to have my thyroid removed i am very worried about this as i am really scared of hospitals and operations,
i was just wondering if anyone could guide me through the procedure,and what i will feel like when i wake up after the op,please tell me the truth,so i can prepare myself for what i have to go through
jacky
The best thing is to ask your surgeon and/or have a chat with your GP. It's normal to feel afraid before surgery, and to give informed consent, you really need to understand exactly what will happen before, during and after. Having said all that, I had a thyroidectomy years ago, and then more surgery on the bit that was left last year, and it really wasn't so bad.
Like Charis said best have a word with your gp or consultant, its not really that bad honest. I'd had previous surgery on my neck and when I woke up I had a stiff neck and very sore throat. Having half my thyroid removed was a doddle, no neck problems or sore throat. When you are given a bed the nurse's will check your blood pressure, give you a lovely pair of long socks and if your'e lucky will even put them on for you :cool:, they will also ask if your'e got any question's. The aesthetist will come and see you, ask you a few questions and also ask if your'e got any, please do ask them they won't mind even if you think it's silly. Again the surgeon or their registar will come round and go throught it all, if you want it explained to you or any questions just ask that's one of the reason's they come round, All the staff know that patient's are worried/unsure and are happy to answer any questions.
Once you are taken to your bed the time will soon go and before you know it you will be back in your bed and it'll all be over. The nurses will check your bp etc every 30 minutes or so and may offer you a cup of tea/water, you may have a drip for a while and/or oxygen don't worry it's normal. I had staples not stitches which shouldn't hurt when they are taken out about 10/14 days later, I would sooner have them than stitches. You may be asked to have a blood test this is to sort out your medication due to you no longer having a thyroid (if your'e in the UK a bonus free prescriptions for life):D
Any questions please feel free to PM me although I have still got half my thyroid so can't tell you what it's like to not have it at all. Honestly it's not that bad and please please ask any of the staff if your'e got any questions or not too sure about something, they won't mind.
Hugs Cis