Can a partial removal of the thyroid gland result in tingling sensations and headaches?

Question

Hello doctor,

I underwent surgery to remove the right lobe of my thyroid and isthmus 11 days ago. Around 9 days post-op, I began experiencing tingling sensations in my feet, hands, and face (excluding the lips), along with recurring tension headaches. These symptoms have been coming and going. The headaches seem to respond to Ibuprofen.

I contacted my doctor, who ordered lab tests to check my calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. But, my doctor expressed significant doubt that my symptoms could be related to the surgery because only half of my thyroid was removed. Upon reviewing my medical records, I found that the pathology report confirmed that everything removed was benign, including two nodules, one of which was wrapped around my esophagus and larynx. The report also mentioned the presence of one focal parathyroid gland and one focal peri-thyroidal lymph node in the removed tissue. I am also taking medications Busiprone and Blisovi 24 Fe

Could the removal of this single parathyroid gland be linked to the symptoms ? I am asking because my doctor appears confident that these symptoms are unrelated to the surgery. Please clarify.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on the information you have provided, it is possible that you are experiencing transient hypocalcemia as a result of the surgery. This condition can occur because the surgery may have temporarily affected the functioning of your remaining parathyroid gland.

In many cases, this condition corrects itself, but there are instances where it may persist. I would suggest checking your calcium levels again and discussing the results with your doctor so that a suitable solution can be found.

I hope this advice proves helpful to you.

Thank you.