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What are the long-term/late effects of thyroid cancer?

April 26, 2017cancer late long-term Thyroid

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What are the long-term/late effects of thyroid cancer?

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Those who have been treated for thyroid cancer usually have good outcomes and high quality of life. Surgery will leave a scar (the degree varies by individual) and it can be associated with voice problems and hypoparathyroidism (problems regulating blood calcium levels). RAI can have permanent effects on salivary glands and taste. Eating sour sweets such as lemon drops may minimize the effects of radiation on the salivary glands. Patients who have had radiation may be at risk for parotid cancer (cancer of the salivary gland.) There may be risks to the heart and bones from TSH suppression although the link is unclear. It is not unusual for those who have been treated for thyroid cancer to experience fatigue, psychological issues, and memory and concentration problems.