HomeAnswersEndocrinologytotal thyroidectomyWhy do I feel tired, have insomnia, and weight gain after getting thyroid glands removed?

I am experiencing tiredness, weight gain and insomnia after surgical removal of both thyroids?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Divakara. P

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 3, 2019
Reviewed AtJune 7, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had both my thyroid glands removed eight years ago, and a small amount was left (in the size of half of my small nail). Since then, I am getting my blood test done every year, which comes back normal. I do not understand this as everybody needs two thyroid glands to work properly, and a small amount of the gland is not enough to do the job. I suffer from tiredness, weight gain, and insomnia over these years.

Answered by Dr. Divakara. P

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is not the size of the thyroid gland, but it is the function that matters. In most of the thyroid gland removal, the left over gland will start hyper functioning and hence will take over the body function. So, if your blood work is normal means that a small part of the thyroid is working well. Now coming to your problem, it might be due to either calcium or vitamin D deficiency which can happen because of your thyroid removal. I advise you to get serum D3 and calcium levels tested. Revert back with reports. Weight gain could be due to physical inactivity, excess of cholesterol or even diabetes or adrenal problems.

I advise you to get the following tests done;

1. Serum lipid profile.

2. Serum cortisol.

3. FBS (fasting blood sugar), and PPBS (postprandial blood sugar).

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Divakara. P
Dr. Divakara. P

Internal Medicine

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