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Can Thyroid Medication Improve Your Heart Health?
Published: Oct 31, 2023
Treating hypothyroidism with thyroid hormone replacement can significantly enhance heart function and overall well-being. Discover how therapy can make a difference.
Understanding Thyroid Hormone Replacement
Thyroxine (T4) is a common treatment for hypothyroidism, aiming to restore normal thyroid hormone levels. This therapy helps normalize many bodily functions, including those related to the heart.
Benefits for the Heart
T4 therapy can increase heart rate and improve cardiac output, helping the heart pump more efficiently. This therapy can also lower blood pressure by reducing blood vessel resistance.
Considerations for Treatment
Patients, especially older adults or those with heart disease, may need to start with lower doses to avoid complications like arrhythmias or angina. Monitoring and adjusting treatment is crucial for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
T4 therapy is a thyroid hormone replacement treatment used for hypothyroidism.
It improves heart rate and cardiac output, reducing blood vessel resistance.
Older adults and those with heart disease should use caution.
Yes, it can help lower blood pressure by reducing vascular resistance.
The Bottom Line
Thyroid hormone replacement can rejuvenate heart function, highlighting the importance of timely treatment.
References
- GRAETTINGER JS, MUENSTER JJ, CHECCHIA CS, et al. A correlation of clinical and hemodynamic studies in patients with hypothyroidism. J Clin Invest 1958; 37:502.
- Crowley WF Jr, Ridgway EC, Bough EW, et al. Noninvasive evaluation of cardiac function in hypothyroidism. Response to gradual thyroxine replacement. N Engl J Med 1977; 296:1.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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