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A member asked:
Had total thyroidectomy due to thyroid cancer 7 weeks ago; voice get tired after talking for awhile. normal side effect and when will it get better?
4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Normal: The recurrent laryngeal nerve, which controls your vocal cords, travels directly under the thyroid and easily becomes damaged during the surgery. Being intubated and having your neck muscles manipulated during the surgery also contribute to voice problems. It should get better within 3-4 months.
Answered 10/28/2016
4.8k views
Not unusual: But be checked for vocal cords. The nerves are in the area and can be transiently traumatized. Occasionally with tumors and wider resection some permanent effect can occur. Your surgeon will examine with mirror or scope. 4-6 weeks is not uncommon.
Answered 3/12/2015
4.8k views
Muscles...: ...That regulate vocal cord tension during speech are often bruised or damaged during thyroid surgery; this is unavoidable as some of them form a "tent" over the gland.
Answered 10/20/2013
4.8k views
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