Has anyone had thyroid issues after head and neck radiation?

Posted by srm @srm, Oct 13, 2021

I started therapy today for my lymphedema which is just another side effect from my treatment. The therapist pointed out that my thyroid gland was larger and harder than normal. Has anyone had thyroid issues after head and neck radiation? It is not painful and because of the lymphedema swelling under my chin, you can’t see it.
I already have an appointment with my family doctor next week so plan to get him to check it. The therapist suggested that this could be contributing to my very painful throat that is causing me most of my issues right now. Almost 4 months post radiation and still on liquids and have to freeze throat with lidocaine before I can drink my protein shakes.

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Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Oct 23, 2021

@srm, I’m tagging you to make sure you saw the responses you received regarding your question about thyroid issues post radiation. How are you doing?

srm | @srm | Oct 23, 2021

@colleenyoung
Thanks- yes I have seen them. There was a conversation within a conversation and some good info. I’m doing okay. I have found a good therapist who is working on draining my lymphedema and believe that I am realizing some success with the acupuncturist who is working on my saliva production. A bit early to tell. I will start going for the acupuncture treatments twice per week starting next week. I’m still dealing with the mucositis but it has improved significantly. I had so many items to review with my doctor earlier this week that I forgot to mention my thyroid issue. I remembered once I got into my car. I see him in another 3 weeks so it will be at the top of my agenda.

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Oct 28, 2021

In reply to @srm "@colleenyoung Thanks- yes I have seen them. There was a conversation within a conversation and some..." + (show)

Does the lymphedema therapy feel good or is it uncomfortable in the neck region?

srm | @srm | Oct 28, 2021

In reply to @colleenyoung "Does the lymphedema therapy feel good or is it uncomfortable in the neck region?" + (show)

@colleenyoung
The therapist does a good job of making sure she’s not causing pain while draining. It always feels good afterwards when the swelling is down. Sounds like I will need to go for regular and frequent visits for a while. And once we have the lymphedema under control may only need to go every 4 to 6 weeks for maintenance. I am seeing a private therapist that specializes in lymphedema therapy. I am scheduled next week at a different location that was booked through the cancer clinic. It will be interesting to see how they manage the therapy. I chose to go private because I didn’t want to wait the 6 weeks for the one connected to my cancer clinic. The difference is that I pay for the private therapy out of pocket whereas insurance pays for the other.