Hypothyroidism: Without treatment, the heart can be damaged

Created: 09/15/2022, 12:00 p.m

By: Natalie Hull Drawbar

Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to heart disease.

(Iconic image) © Science Photo Library/Imago

Even mild hypothyroidism can result in heart failure.

Women over the age of 62 are particularly at risk.

In Germany, about five out of 100 people suffer from an underactive thyroid gland, the so-called hypothyroidism.

This small endocrine gland makes important hormones that affect the body's metabolism.

If the thyroid gland lacks iodine to produce its hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), the thyroid gland can become underactive or overactive, sometimes with an increased risk of heart disease.

24vita.de knows which specific heart problems can be triggered by hypothyroidism.

There are seven warning signs that indicate an underactive thyroid and even ten signs that can occur in the course of an overactive thyroid.

Both diseases can be treated with medication.

However, while half of the patients with hyperthyroidism are cured after drug therapy, those affected by hypothyroidism and Hashimoto often continue to suffer from symptoms despite therapy.

This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication.

In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor.

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