Thyroid disorders have the potential to disrupt the human metabolic system. One of the effects of thyroid disorders is an increase in blood pressure above normal levels (hypertension). How do thyroid disorders affect blood pressure? Check out the following review.

Relations between thyroid disorders and hypertension

The thyroid gland is a tiny organ found near the neck. This gland's function is to produce hormones required for the body's metabolism. When this organ fails, the body's metabolic system may be disrupted.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too many thyroid hormones. In contrast, hypothyroidism occurs when the body produces insufficient thyroid hormone. While both disorders can cause heart problems, hyperthyroidism is more likely to lead to hypertension. This condition is referred to as secondary hypertension.

In addition to secondary hypertension, hyperthyroidism increases the risk of developing atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure.

Hyperthyroidism increases the risk of developing hypertension due to the following mechanisms:

Increases cardiac output

Thyroid hormones have several functions, including regulating the work of the heart muscle. Excess thyroid hormones increase the work of the heart muscle, which can result in an increase in cardiac output, or the amount of blood volume pumped by the heart in one minute. An increase in cardiac output can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

Blood vessel stiffness

Blood vessels are made up of elastin and collagen fibers, which enable them to dilate and constrict in response to the body's needs. Increased thyroid hormone levels can reduce blood vessel flexibility, making dilation more difficult. Blood pressure can rise as blood vessels stiffen and cardiac output increases.

Increases systolic blood pressure

Excess thyroid hormone production increases the heart's ability to move blood throughout the body, causing blood pressure to rise.

Hyperthyroidism management

Hyperthyroidism is one of the risk factors for secondary hypertension. However, this does not mean that all people with hyperthyroidism will develop secondary hypertension. Some other risk factors for hypertension to watch out for include:

• Having diabetes
• High-sodium diet
• Drinking alcohol
• Inactive lifestyle
• Smoking
• Advanced age
• Having a family history of high blood pressure

Addressing thyroid disorders can help people with secondary hypertension. Treatment for hyperthyroidism must also be tailored to the underlying cause and several other factors that contribute to thyroid disorders.

Some treatment options for hyperthyroidism include the following:

Taking medication

Antithyroid drugs can be used to treat hyperthyroidism by controlling thyroid hormone production. Pregnant women with thyroid disorders should consult a doctor about their condition, as thyroid medication can harm the fetus.

Radioiodine therapy

Radioiodine therapy is done by taking radioactive iodine pills. These pills will destroy the thyroid gland that produces excessive thyroid hormones. This type of treatment may also be recommended for thyroid cancer patients who are unable to undergo surgery.

Thyroid surgery

Doctors may also recommend thyroid surgery for people with hyperthyroidism, particularly if they are pregnant or if other treatments are potentially dangerous or ineffective. Patients who have had their thyroid gland removed are more likely to develop hypothyroidism and may require medication to manage the condition.

Thyroid disorders are among the many possible causes of hypertension. If you have symptoms of thyroid disorder or hypertension, consult your doctor for proper treatment.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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