Postoperative care for thyroid cancer

Postoperative care for thyroid cancer should focus on wound recovery, dietary adjustment and psychological support to promote physical recovery. After surgery, the wound should be kept clean and dry to avoid infection; high-protein, low-iodine foods such as chicken, fish and fresh vegetables should be chosen; psychologically, anxiety can be relieved through family companionship or professional consultation.

1. Wound care is the key to postoperative recovery. Within 24 hours after surgery, the wound should be closely observed for bleeding or redness and swelling, and the dressing should be changed in time to keep the wound dry. Avoid strenuous exercise or lifting heavy objects to prevent the wound from splitting. If fever, increased wound pain or abnormal secretions occur, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Diet adjustment helps the body recover. Choose easily digestible liquid food, such as porridge and soup, in the early stage after surgery, and gradually transition to semi-liquid and ordinary diet. High-protein foods such as eggs and soy products can promote wound healing, and low-iodine diets such as fresh vegetables and fruits can help stabilize thyroid function. Avoid consuming high-iodine foods such as kelp and seaweed.

3. Psychological support is crucial for postoperative recovery. Patients who have undergone thyroid cancer surgery may experience anxiety and depression due to the disease and treatment. Family members should accompany the patient more, listen to the patient's feelings, and seek help from a psychological counselor when necessary. Participating in patient support groups or rehabilitation activities can also help relieve psychological stress.

4. Regular follow-up is an important part of postoperative care. After surgery, you need to follow the doctor's instructions to regularly perform thyroid function tests, neck ultrasound and blood tests to monitor tumor recurrence or metastasis. The doctor will adjust the treatment plan based on the test results, such as supplementing thyroid hormones or conducting further treatment.

5. Lifestyle adjustments contribute to long-term recovery. After surgery, you should maintain a regular schedule and avoid staying up late and overwork. Do some light exercise, such as walking and yoga, to strengthen your physical fitness. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and avoid contact with radioactive substances to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Postoperative care for thyroid cancer needs to start from wound management, diet adjustment, psychological support, regular check-ups and lifestyle, etc., to promote comprehensive physical recovery. Patients should follow the doctor's advice, actively cooperate with treatment, maintain an optimistic attitude, and gradually resume normal life. At the same time, family and social support also play an important role in the patient's recovery, and work together to help patients regain their health.