After your thyroidectomy, you may have trouble chewing and swallowing.

Your voice might be hoarse.

And it might be hard to talk.

This is all normal.

And these symptoms usually go away within a few months, although sometimes it can take longer.

You may have stitches.

The doctor will tell you if you need to come back to have them removed or if they'll dissolve on their own.

If you had a tube called a drain, it's usually removed before you come home.

But if the drain is still there, the care team will teach you how to take care of it.

After you go home, be sure to follow any instructions about diet or activity, and take medicines as prescribed.

And be sure to follow any instructions for caring for your incision-- the place where the doctor made the cut.

Call your doctor if you have any problems, such as new or worse pain or an incision that comes open.

And call your doctor if bright red blood soaks through the bandage.

Also call your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as increased pain, warmth, or redness; red streaks leading from the area; pus draining from the area; or a fever.

And call if you have a tingling feeling around your mouth or if you have cramping or tingling in your hands and feet.

Get emergency help right away if you pass out or have sudden swelling and bruising in the area.

Taking care of yourself and knowing what to watch for can help you feel better and recover sooner.

Remember, if you have any questions, you can call your doctor.