My thyroid was removed due to a cancerous nodule. I didn't have Hashimoto's, only nodules. Taking thyroid meds for the rest of my life is a bummer for sure. The doc wants me to be hypo, but I was hyper for 30 years and not having enough thyroid hormones sent my body into a tailspin. For 18 months. Hypo symptoms are horrible.

If it isn't absolutely necessary, I would not let them remove any of your thyroid. Just my two cents...I'm not a doctor.

Good luck, whatever you decide.

Keeska how did they find out your nodule was cancerous? I have had biopsy and stuff but hey didn't say it was cancer. I thank you for your reply

Hmmm.... if not cancerous, I would opt for thyroid replacement therapy (synthroid or something like it) - it's been known to shrink nodules without surgery.

However, if it's cancerous or you they interfere with breathing, swallowing, etc - have it out.

You WILL need follow up care for hypothyroidism. The theory is that half your thyroid will compensate for the half that's missing,but often times that's not the case....and you end up needing replacement therapy anyway (the same kind that's known to shrink nodules).

It worth asking your doctor questions about...and making your own decision.

I agree, I would at least get a second opinion about needing that thyroid out. Once it's gone, you don't get it back. They might be wanting it out b/c of your afib, maybe they are afraid that putting you on medication will make you go hyper, and that could aggravate your Afib. I would ask for a second opinion before going into surgery though.

I agree with everyone else - the thyroid is a vital gland and it's always better to keep "original equipment" whenever possible.