I take Lithium for my bipolar disorder. It interferes with my thyroid which is a very important gland in the neck that regulates the metabolism. You can’t live without it and have to take supplements in its absence. I have recurring hyperthyroidism which is not good. It makes me sick. However, the lithium maintains my stability and I cannot stop taking it. So, in a joint decision between me, my wife, and my endocrinologist, I’m going to have my thyroid completely surgically removed. The surgery will take about 3 hours and will be done under general anesthesia. Risk factors include the surgeon damaging the nerves in my neck or my vocal cords. If this happens, I could lose the ability to speak. I will be dependent on thyroid hormone replacement therapy for the rest of my life. This is all so much to deal with....I’m so tired of it all.
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