Answer:

Surgery is the primary treatment for thyroid cancer. Doctors remove the tumor, lymph nodes, or organs containing the malignant tumor. After thyroid cancer surgery, patients should eat a nutritious diet for recovery and wound healing and shouldn't restrict their food intake. The diet should include a variety of foods such as meat, fish, eggs, fruit, and plenty of green vegetables. Combining this with 15-30 minutes of daily exercise and a healthy lifestyle helps improve mental well-being and strengthens the immune system to fight cancer cells. A nutritious diet promotes faster wound healing, boosts the immune system, and reduces stress and fatigue during recovery.

If radioactive iodine therapy is required after surgery, you should limit iodized salt and foods containing iodine (milk, eggs, seafood, soybeans, beef, chicken) for 1-2 weeks. Iodine intake should be reduced to below 50 micrograms per day (normally 150-300 micrograms per day) for optimal treatment effectiveness.

Doctor Vinh advises a patient. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

During and after treatment, patients should limit processed foods and fried or fatty foods to avoid affecting blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Wash the wound daily with saline or an antiseptic solution, and avoid bandaging it too tightly or too loosely. Keep the wound free from hair, dust, and dirt to promote faster healing. If the wound shows any unusual signs, such as swelling, pus, or discharge, consult a doctor for appropriate advice.

Dr. Le Ngoc Vinh, MD

Breast - Head and Neck Surgery Unit

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7