Okay, I had my thyroidectomy

and I got the pathology report back. Looks like the tumor was encapsulated and had not metasticized to any of the neck tissue beyond the thyroid. Now, in five weeks I do the radioactive iodine stuff. One of my sisters-in-law was telling me that when you have radiation treatment, it would not hurt to have a mouthguard made prior to the treatment to protect your teeth. I'm not sure yet how this radioactive iodine is delivered to the system--my appointment to finalize this portion of treatment is Wednesday. Is my sister-in-law right about this? Should I set up an appointment with my dentist also? Is this a stupid question? Thanks for allowing me a trial run before my oncology appointment.

but congratulations on the good encap results. I hope the remainder of your treatment goes well. :hug:

Good luck on your treatment.

There are no stupid questions when the subject is your health. Make a list of questions and ask away! Also, find an oncological nurse; they have more hands-on experience with the treatment process.

the dental part I'd check with the doctor on

My mother is having a thyroidectomy on May 18th. I hadn't heard of that mouthguard thing but if you hear more about it from your dentist will you fill us in so I can inform my mom.

Glad every thing went well :)

He's been doing well ever since, says he doesn't know anything about mouth guards but maybe that's new. He said he'd be happy to talk to you about it if you want.

I had a total thyroidectomy in Feb. of 2004 because of a papillary carcinoma located on my right lobe. It was centralized but since reocurrence is common in thyroid cancers, it is good that you had the thyroidectomy.

Even though it is a thyroidectomy, much of the thyroid tissue is entertwined with other neck tissue thereby necesitating the radiation treatment.

Over the next 4-6 weeks your body is going to lose any residual thyroid hormone left in your body. You will begin to feel very fatigued, muscles will begin to feel like lead and overall you will be extremely slow. Your hair may begin to fall out, but nothing like chemo. Your thinking may be a little impaired as well as your body loses the thyroid hormone. This is all normal and you do not need to worry.

When it comes time to take the radioactive iodine, you will be put in isolation. You can have no contact with anyone because you will be emitting radiation. I was in isolation for 3 days then had to take precautions at home to avoid contaminating food, utensils, etc... For example, no one in my household could use the same bathroom as me for about a week.

Anyhow, if you any questions just PM me.


Edit: I didn't need a mouthguard.