For people having thyroid issues, it is always better to be treated as it might lead to cardiac issues. Having thyroid generally increases effects of any existing cardiac problems already present and might also lead to any new cases of cardiac problems. Read through the article to understand more on this topic.
Cardiac symptoms occur generally in people who have hypothyroidism. But mostly, people that have underlying heart disease get affected more. Mentioned below are some of the most common problems associated with hypothyroidism:
1. Swelling (edema): Edema can occur as a result of worsening heart failure. In addition, hypothyroidism itself can produce a type of edema called myxedema, which is caused by an accumulation of abnormal proteins and other molecules in the fluid that surrounds the body’s cells.
2. Heart arrhythmias: Hypothyroidism may make it more likely for heartbeats to be premature or irregular and tremble (atrial fibrillation).
3. Heart failure (new or worsening): In people with relatively modest underlying heart disease, hypothyroidism can lead to heart failure for the first time.
4. High diastolic blood pressure (diastolic hypertension): Hypothyroidism can cause the arteries to stiffen, increasing diastolic blood pressure.
5. Dyspnea: Shortness of breath on exertion or poor exercise tolerance in hypothyroidism is usually due to weakness in the skeletal muscles. It mostly may be due to worsening heart failure.
6. Slow heart rate (bradycardia): Thyroid hormone affects how quickly your heart beats. Especially in patients who also have cardiac disease, those with hypothyroidism often have heart rates that are 10 to 20 beats per minute slower than normal.