Struggling with Persistent Seroma After Surgery
Hello, I’m a 35-year-old woman dealing with significant weight challenges and a complex medical background, as I manage multiple medications daily. I recently learned that I have nodules in my thyroid. A partial thyroidectomy was performed, where they removed the right side containing the nodules, which were later diagnosed as papillary carcinoma. At this point, it remains unclear if cancer has spread, as no further tests have been conducted. My surgery took place on May 20th, and this morning, I underwent drainage for a seroma for the fifth time, leaving my doctor perplexed about the situation. Currently, I'm on my eighth course of antibiotics. I was hospitalized for almost four days under suspicion of cellulitis, but now there’s speculation that I might be allergic to the stitches used during my surgery. This was something I voiced to my surgeon prior to the procedure, given my previous experiences where stitches have worked their way out, causing intense discomfort, even after the incisions had healed. Initially, I was reassured that such occurrences are rare, yet now it seems my fears may have been valid. Five weeks post-operation, and I feel utterly worn out both mentally and physically. Due to these complications, my second surgery to remove the remaining thyroid tissue has been postponed, and the plan is to refer me to Barrows in Arizona. However, when I called to schedule an appointment, I was met with disbelief regarding my request for a quick visit, as they’re booked until August. My current ENT is aware of my situation and is advocating for an expedited appointment. I am truly worn out at this point. Would anyone have suggestions on how to prevent this recurrence? Why is this persistent issue occurring? Might I genuinely be allergic to the stitches? Any advice would be incredibly appreciated, as I’m feeling quite disheartened about everything happening. Also, could someone confirm if the swelling I've been experiencing five weeks after surgery is considered normal? I have been documenting this journey with photos, capturing the progression from the outset of my issues up to now. Please let me know if the swelling looks standard for this recovery stage.
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 5:50:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your struggles with postoperative complications and the emotional toll it has taken. Persistent seromas can be frustrating and challenging to manage. Here’s a breakdown of your situation, along with some actionable steps.
Summary of Key Points:
- Persistent Seroma: This is a collection of fluid that can occur after surgery and may happen due to various reasons, including surgical technique and the body's healing response.
- Possible Reactions to Sutures: Allergic reactions to sutures can occur, particularly if you have a history of complications with previous sutures.
- Swelling Post-Surgery: Some swelling can be normal after surgery, but persistent or worsening swelling can indicate a problem.
Explanation:
A seroma might develop after surgery when fluid accumulates in the space where tissue was removed. Factors contributing to persistent seromas can include infection, tissue healing irregularities, and, as you speculated, possibly an allergic reaction to sutures. The fact you have been on multiple antibiotics and experienced cellulitis raises concerns about an underlying issue that needs monitoring.
Swelling after surgery can be typical, particularly when the procedure involves significant tissue manipulation, but if it persists beyond the expected time frame, it might warrant further evaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Fluid Management: If you're draining the seroma regularly, continue to do so under your doctor’s guidance. Monitor any changes in color or consistency of the fluid, as this can provide insights into possible infection.
-
Document Symptoms: Keep detailed records of your symptoms, including how the swelling changes, any pain or discomfort, and your overall energy levels. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.
-
Take Care of Your Health: Focus on adequate hydration, proper nutrition, and managing stress to support your body’s recovery. Gentle movement may help prevent stiffness, but listen to your body and avoid overexertion.
-
Discuss Reactions with Your Surgeon: When you have your next appointment (ideally as soon as possible), convey your concerns about the sutures like you have before. Asking for alternatives (such as absorbable sutures) may help prevent future complications.
-
Seek Emotional Support: Engaging with support groups or talking to a counselor may be beneficial for managing stress and emotional exhaustion. It's normal to feel disheartened during such a challenging recovery process.
-
Follow Up on Upcoming Appointments: Stay proactive with scheduling an expedited visit to your referral center. If necessary, communicate openly with your current ENT regarding your urgency.
Remember that you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking help and expressing your concerns is essential. If you have any specific pictures or documentation of your swelling that you're considering sharing for assessment, prepare those for your upcoming medical consultation, as visual aids can sometimes help clarify your situation better.
Related Questions
Assessing My Health Concerns: How Anxious Should I Be?
I’m a 32-year-old woman, weighing 124 pounds and standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall. For over a year, I have been experiencing bright red rectal bleeding. Initially, I attributed this issue to hemorrhoids that developed during my pregnancy two years ago. The bleeding occurs with most of my bowel movements, sometimes happens without one, and on a few occasions, has been enough to stain the toilet bowl significantly. The color of the blood is typically darker than what I observe during a hemorrhoid flare-up. There is a notable family history of bowel cancer on both sides; one family member was diagnosed at age 45, and another at 60. In the past six months, I have encountered several episodes of severe abdominal pain—3 to 4 instances—intense enough to consider a trip to the emergency room. However, the pain usually subsides within about an hour. It’s unusual for me to experience such acute pain, given my high tolerance for discomfort; for example, I once played rugby shortly after dislocating and fracturing my finger. Recently, I mustered the courage to consult with my doctor, who recommended a FIT test, which returned a positive result (30.1). Additionally, I underwent a complete blood test, and aside from having low ferritin levels (7 µg/L), all other results were normal. I have since been referred for a colonoscopy on a two-week waiting list to rule out any possible bowel cancer. Given these circumstances, how concerned should I be? Thank you for your input.
Understanding Possible Seizure Triggers and Recurrence Risks
Health Background: I am a 21-year-old female, standing at 169 cm and weighing 65 kg. Over the past three years, I have been using oral contraceptives. As of this morning, I started taking 25 mcg of levothyroxine along with a weekly vitamin D supplement of 0.266 mg. Recently, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and found to have a vitamin D deficiency that I suspect has existed for the last three years. I do not consume alcohol or smoke, and I can confirm I am not pregnant. Two years ago, I experienced a mild concussion. I currently reside in Spain. A couple of months back, in mid-December, I blacked out twice. The second occurrence took place while I was at the doctor’s office after seeking urgent medical care for the initial incident. Following the second episode, I underwent a CT scan and an EKG, both of which returned normal results. Further tests, as directed by my physician, revealed a critical vitamin D deficiency and hypothyroidism; however, he expressed doubt that either of these conditions led to my loss of consciousness. I was then referred to a neurologist, and I am presently awaiting an appointment. Although the waiting period is lengthy, my doctor indicated that I should receive priority for scheduling, although the exact timeframe remains uncertain. The referral document summarized my events, labeling the second episode (which the physician witnessed) as a potential seizure devoid of tonic-clonic movements—a revelation that took me by surprise. After regaining consciousness, I felt extremely disoriented and terrified, struggling to process what was happening. I have no prior history of seizures, epilepsy, or any related conditions, and there is no known family history of these issues. If this indeed was a seizure, what might have triggered it? Additionally, what is the likelihood of experiencing another one? Since that time, I have not had any further incidents, but I have experienced moments where I felt a sense of impending doom, which I managed to overcome. I intend to wait for the neurologist's evaluation, but the uncertainty surrounding a possible neurological condition is quite distressing. Thank you for any insight you can provide!
Understanding EEG Results for My 22-Month-Old Son: Insights Needed
Could someone help clarify this for me? My son, who is just 22 months old, hasn’t started walking yet, becomes tired easily, and has been experiencing behavioral outbursts. He had a febrile seizure in February 2025, followed by another unexplained seizure in April 2025, which led us to consult a neurologist. Since he was 3 months old, he has been receiving therapy from a physical therapist for torticollis. At birth, he spent five days in the NICU due to issues with meconium aspiration. A recent MRI showed normal results, and he also had a follow-up EEG after one conducted in July 2025. The results from this recent EEG were abnormal for a pediatric patient in awake, drowsy, and sleeping states. Notably, there were brief episodes of left frontotemporal delta slowing, which occurred mainly when he was awake and drowsy. There were no signs of epileptiform activity detected. In contrast, the EEG performed back on July 3, 2025, was deemed normal for both awake and drowsy states, again with no evidence of epileptiform irregularities, although it did not capture any sleep data. This examination was prompted by the child's existing history of febrile seizures. Importantly, he is not currently on any anti-seizure medications. The EEG procedure used standard electrode placements per the 10-20 system, conducted a single-lead EKG, and included continuous video monitoring. During the analysis, the background activity was symmetric, indicating some anterior-posterior (AP) organization, with a dominant rhythm of 50-80 microvolts at 7 Hz. His drowsy state was marked by a reduced amount of eye blink activity, less breathing motion interference, and a generalized slowing in theta/delta frequencies. Stage II sleep exhibited spindles and vertex waves patterns. Additionally, there were intermittent bursts of 250-300 microvolts in the left frontotemporal region with semi-rhythmic activity of 2-4 Hz, mostly observed during wakefulness and drowsiness. No definitive epileptiform discharge was noted. Photic stimulation during the test did not elicit a strong response, and hyperventilation was not conducted during this session.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation and Thyroid Issues: Variability in Cardioversion Decisions
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for guidance regarding my mother’s current health situation, and I’d greatly appreciate any shared experiences or thoughts. **My mother's background:** - **Age**: 55 years - **Weight**: Recently dropped to 116 kg from 118 kg in just two days, likely due to diuretics. - **Health history**: Previously an underactive thyroid, undiagnosed and untreated, now presenting as overactive. - **Medications**: Currently taking thyroid medication and a beta-blocker (Rapiblock). **Current health status:** My mother has been hospitalized since Tuesday, experiencing **atrial fibrillation with heart rates exceeding 200** beats per minute due to her thyroid's hyperactivity. - The plan for cardioversion was initially settled on Tuesday. However, the following day, the medical team advised postponing it until her thyroid levels could be stabilized, believing that her heart rate would return to normal once her thyroid condition was managed. - Her **obesity** precludes her from undergoing a transthoracic echocardiogram, and due to her thyroid concerns, she cannot handle contrast dye (this has been a consistent issue for over four years). Therefore, the only feasible option was a **transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)**, which has yet to be performed. - She has been prescribed various medications including beta-blockers and thyroid treatments in the past. - On Friday, a doctor proposed proceeding with cardioversion; however, the attending senior physician objected. - Today (Saturday), another clinician has expressed a desire to move forward with cardioversion, having initiated a new medication, as the senior physician is unavailable. - **Communication has been unclear**, as we were notified of developments by a nurse rather than the physician in charge, causing confusion and anxiety. - Currently, only a **chest X-ray** is scheduled, and the TEE remains unaddressed. **My inquiries are as follows:** 1. Is it common for medical professionals to have varying opinions and frequently revise medication or treatment plans like cardioversion? 2. Is it safe to conduct cardioversion in the absence of a TEE? I presumed that this was a standard procedure to exclude the presence of blood clots. 3. Is it usual practice to have only a chest X-ray prior to moving ahead with cardioversion? 4. How typical is it for patients or their families to not be directly informed about treatment changes and learn about them through nursing staff instead? I recognize that this cannot substitute for professional medical advice. I’m simply trying to discern whether these circumstances are typical or if we should express our concerns more assertively with the healthcare facility. Thank you for your insights!
28-Year-Old Male Experiencing Scalp Sensations Post-Amitriptyline Treatment
I am a 28-year-old man in generally good health, without any cardiac concerns. Approximately a month ago, I encountered intense pain localized to one side of my head, which was unresponsive to paracetamol. However, a single dose of a migraine treatment provided substantial relief. Following that, I began a regimen of amitriptyline, starting at a nightly dose of 10 to 25 mg. While my head pain has diminished significantly—by about 90 to 95%—I now experience occasional uncomfortable sensations on my scalp. These feelings include pins and needles, a cooling sensation, and some crawling feelings near my hairline and ears. There are fleeting moments where I feel brief throbs lasting a second, but I do not have any persistent headaches. To clarify, I do not experience any of the following: - Nausea - Weakness in my limbs - Numbness - Changes in my vision - Coordination difficulties - Seizures The symptoms I have are transient, shifting around and often intensifying when I become conscious of them or as the day progresses. I would like to know: Is it common to experience these sensations during the recovery stage following episodes of neuralgia or migraine-like discomfort? Additionally, could the amitriptyline potentially be causing these temporary paresthetic sensations? I am seeking some reassurance or advice on what is typically observed during this healing process. Thank you.