Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) of the thyroid hormone. If yours is even mildly underactive (what’s known as subclinical), you might notice a slower metabolism, weaker nails, and problems concentrating. After looking at data from 14,879 participants, 691 with congestive heart failure (CHD), researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital found mild hypothyroidism raises the risk of mortality in patients with the condition. “Even subclinical hypothyroidism has an adverse effect on your blood vessel function, which can ultimately dispose you to CHD, hypertension, heart attack, and stroke,” explains Connie Rhee, MD, lead researcher on the study. “People with CHD have less of a reserve to handle the changes their thyroid is causing on their heart, so they’re more susceptible to a negative outcome.” The link between mild hypothyroidism and heart failure is there, but it’s not exactly intuitive. If you have CHD, make sure your doctor checks your thyroid levels. An estimated 4.6 percent of Americans over 12 deal with hypothyroidism. Visit our Thyroid Health Conditions Page for more information on symptoms, treatment, and natural remedies for every thyroid condition.
