There are certain cardiac effects of hyperthyroidism including faster heart rate, increased blood pressure and irregular electrical activity of the heart. The patient may experience tachycardia and palpitations. Increased thyroid hormone can lead to a faster heart rate and stronger squeezing of the heart. One may even experience heart beating faster and stronger, even at rest. These symptoms may even be exaggerated by any form of physical stress such as exercise. Therefore, the patient develops decreased exercise tolerance.
Hyperthyroidism causes high cardiac output and left ventricular hypertrophy in the early stage and biventricular dilatation and congestive heart failure in the late stage. Atrial fibrillation** and pulmonary hypertension*** also add to the increased morbidity of untreated hyperthyroidism. Early and effective treatment of hyperthyroidism is key to preventing thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy. It is a disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body that can eventually lead to heart failure.
* Thickening of the wall of the heart’s main pumping chamber, which may result in poor pumping action and elevated blood pressure.
** Irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots in the heart.
*** A type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart.
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Disclaimer
Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can further read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it’s social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.