Could Hypothyroidism Be Affecting Your Heart?
Could Hypothyroidism Be Affecting Your Heart?
The Big Picture
Hypothyroidism can lead to significant changes in your heart's function and overall cardiovascular health. This article explores how an underactive thyroid might impact your heart.
Contents
- What Is Hypothyroidism?
- Cardiovascular Effects
- Symptoms to Watch Out For
- Impact on Blood Pressure
What Is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, which are crucial for your body's metabolism and energy use. This condition can slow down your body's processes, including those of your heart.
Cardiovascular Effects
In hypothyroidism, your heart's ability to pump blood effectively decreases, leading to lower cardiac output. Additionally, your heart rate slows down, and there's an increase in the resistance of your blood vessels, which can put extra strain on your heart.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Though not always obvious, signs like fatigue during exercise, swelling, and slow heartbeat can indicate cardiovascular issues due to hypothyroidism. If you experience these, consider discussing them with a healthcare professional.
Impact on Blood Pressure
Hypothyroidism can lead to higher diastolic blood pressure due to increased blood vessel resistance. This kind of hypertension is often subtle yet significant in affecting heart health.
FAQs
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland underproduces essential hormones.
How does hypothyroidism affect the heart?
It decreases heart rate and cardiac output, increasing blood vessel resistance.
Can hypothyroidism cause hypertension?
Yes, it can increase diastolic blood pressure due to higher vascular resistance.
What are common heart-related symptoms?
Symptoms include fatigue, exercise intolerance, and swelling.
Is heart failure common in hypothyroidism?
Heart failure solely due to hypothyroidism is rare but possible.
Key Takeaways
An underactive thyroid can significantly impact your heart's health; awareness and treatment are vital.
Additional References
- Klein I, Danzi S. Thyroid disease and the heart. Circulation 2007; 116:1725.
- Taddei S, Caraccio N, Virdis A, et al. Impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in subclinical hypothyroidism: beneficial effect of levothyroxine therapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003; 88:3731.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.