General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
After thyroid surgery, tell the team about tingling in the hands, feet or around the mouth, and about cramps. These can accompany a fall in blood calcium.
The small parathyroid glands lie close to the thyroid. Their function may be affected during the operation, disturbing calcium regulation.
This problem is often temporary but can sometimes persist. The team decides which checks are needed and explains whether calcium and vitamin D treatment is indicated.
Complete thyroid removal also requires daily thyroid hormone replacement for life. That treatment does not replace assessment of calcium: these are separate questions.
Other effects can occur, including difficulty swallowing or a hoarse voice. If voice problems persist, assessment and speech therapy may be offered.
Keep the contact information given at discharge and ask when checks are due, who will relay results and how to take prescribed treatment. Breathing difficulty after surgery requires urgent medical help.
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