Living with thyroid nodules
Most nodules are asymptomatic and benign and do not affect the patient's quality of life or longevity. They also involve no special limitations in terms of diet, exercise, work or sexual activity.
Patients who have undergone surgery should limit their physical activity in the immediate postoperative period, but can gradually reincorporate this according to the surgeon's indications and the type of work and physical activity they do.
If the entire thyroid gland is removed, lifelong oral levothyroxine replacement therapy will be necessary. In addition, although it is rare, hoarseness or dysphonia and calcium alteration may occur after surgery, requiring replacement treatment, which is generally temporary.
If ablative treatment of the thyroid nodule is selected, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. The patient is admitted on the day of the procedure and is discharged a few hours later. The procedure can be performed under local and/or general anaesthetic. It is not usually associated with hypothyroidism and recovery rates are very good, with the nodule volume being reduced by 50%.
The recommendations on toxic habits are similar to those of the general population, and the following are recommended:
Stop smoking.
Do not drink alcohol.
Eat healthily.
Patients can travel normally. It is recommended that you pack enough medication for the entire trip and, if possible, in your hand luggage (at least a few days' doses) to avoid any problems should you lose your checked-in luggage.
Patients who are pregnant or who wish to become pregnant should inform their endocrinologist to decide on the best treatment for their condition.
Substantiated information by:
Published: 10 June 2021
Updated: 10 June 2021
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