Hyperthyroidism and Your Heart: What You Need to Know

Your heart and hyperthyroidism are closely tied together. If you’re dealing with Graves’ disease or another condition that leads to hyperthyroidism, your heart is at risk too. 

First, what exactly is hyperthyroidism? It’s an overactive thyroid gland that produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. That causes a variety of complications in the body, including sensitivity to heat, weight loss, tremors, changes in bowel patterns, fatigue and more.

And one of the biggest things it affects is your heart.

Overactive thyroid, overactive heart

An overactive thyroid can cause significant problems for your heart. The body essentially makes your heart work harder and faster all the time. It can make your heart beat irregularly or lead to palpitations. A boosted heart rate during regular activities means you’re constantly more tired, and it also wears down your heart.

People who’ve dealt with hyperthyroidism are routinely at greater risk for things like stroke and heart disease, and they are under constant risk moving forward because of the time spent with their heart working at higher speed and intensity. 

Help your heart by treating the underlying condition

If you’re dealing with hyperthyroidism, don’t worry—there are a variety of ways to treat the problem. Radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid medications and occasionally a thyroidectomy are all options that can be used to deal with an overactive thyroid.

No matter what option you choose, though, you’re going to be safeguarding your heart for the future. It can take a while for your heart to recover fully, but the sooner you act, the better off you and your heart will be.

Hyperthyroidism has immediate effects on your heart, but if you treat the underlying condition, you can reduce the overall complications. If you think you may be dealing with heart complications due to hyperthyroidism, contact the Oklahoma Heart Hospital today to schedule an appointment.