Can you develop hypothyroidism after surgery?
Mia Horton
Updated on January 10, 2026
Six weeks after surgery, 27% of the cases developed hypothyroidism (6% overt or symptomatic hypothyroidism and 21% subclinical hypothyroidism). The mean preoperative thyrotropin level was significantly higher in the hypothyroid group than in the euthyroid group (1.9±1.2 vs. 1.1±0.7 micro IU/ml).
Can surgery cause hypothyroidism?
Another common cause of hypothyroidism is thyroid surgery. Removal of the whole thyroid gland (i.e. total thyroidectomy) will definitely cause hypothyroidism and up to 30 to 50% of patients having half of the thyroid removed (i.e. thyroid lobectomy) will develop hypothyroidism.What suddenly causes hypothyroidism?
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Autoimmune disorders occur when your immune system produces antibodies that attack your own tissues. Sometimes this process involves your thyroid gland.Can you suddenly become hypothyroid?
Autoimmune hypothyroidism can begin suddenly, but in most people it develops slowly over years. The most common form of autoimmune hypothyroidism is called Hashimoto's disease. This can sometimes cause the thyroid to shrink over time.Can anesthesia affect your thyroid?
There are several reports of severe cardiovascular and respiratory depression in hypothyroid patients during general anaesthesia. Hypothyroidism should therefore be considered in any obese, debilitated patient who displays perioperative cardiovascular or respiratory instability.Will I need thyroid hormone after thyroid surgery?
Can anesthesia affect hormones?
Neural blockade induced by regional anesthesia or local anesthetics have a direct impact on endocrine and metabolic response. Regional anesthesia with the present consciousness, but with sympathetic blockade caused a greater suppression of hormonal responses than the general balanced anesthesia.What does a thyroid storm feel like?
Symptoms of thyroid storm include: Feeling extremely irritable or grumpy. High systolic blood pressure, low diastolic blood pressure, and fast heartbeat. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.What can be mistaken for hypothyroidism?
- Angioedema.
- Bronchitis.
- Bulimia Nervosa.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
- Congestive Heart Failure.
- Depression.
- Menopause.
- Preeclampsia.
What are 3 symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
- Changes in the menstrual cycle.
- Constipation.
- Depression.
- Dry hair and hair loss.
- Dry skin.
- Elevated cholesterol.
- Fatigue.
- Greater sensitivity to cold.