Did you know your high cholesterol levels could be a sign of hypothyroidism? Know symptoms and treatment

Did you know your high cholesterol levels could be a sign of hypothyroidism? Know symptoms and treatment

The thyroid gland, which is a small, butterfly shaped gland located at the base of your neck, just above the windpipe, plays an important role in your health. It helps control your energy, metabolism, and how your organs work, influencing nearly every system in the body, especially the heart. When the thyroid is out of balance, your entire body feels it.

Nine out of 10 patients with overt hypothyroidism (a condition where thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones) show high cholesterol levels, particularly LDL, known as “bad” cholesterol, which is linked with heart conditions. When your thyroid hormone levels are low, your heart may beat slower, and your blood vessels can become tighter and less flexible. This makes it harder for blood to flow, so your body raises blood pressure to keep things moving. That’s why it’s important to catch and treat thyroid issues early, to protect your heart and overall health.

Dr Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director, Abbott India, tells Moneycontrol, “The thyroid is a small gland, but it has a big job, especially when it comes to your heart. Thyroid hormones don’t just control your metabolism, they also help keep your blood vessels working properly. When your thyroid isn’t working right, it can lead to heart problems or make existing heart issues worse. That’s why a simple blood test called the TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) test is so important. It helps doctors check if your thyroid is working properly and can catch problems early, before they affect your heart and overall health.”

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For many people, the first sign of thyroid trouble isn’t neck swelling or pain, it’s an increase in their cholesterol levels. Sometimes, what feels like normal tiredness or weight gain could be in fact your body slowing down because it’s not getting enough thyroid hormones. These hormones help your cells work properly.

When they’re low:
1. Your pulse may slow down
2. Blood pressure can go up
3. You might notice puffiness in your ankles or eyelids.

How can you manage hypothyroidism and protect your heart:
1. For anyone struggling with unexplained symptoms or battling high cholesterol that doesn’t respond as expected, a thyroid test could be the missing piece of the puzzle.

2. A combination of lifestyle, diet and prescribed medication by the treating physician can be needed to keep the LDL cholesterol and other heart related conditions under control.

3. Thyroid issues are more common in women compared to men, and the stakes become even higher after menopause, when the risk of heart disease escalates. This hormonal shift highlights the need of more proactive thyroid testing, which can help with early detection and play a key role in preventing heart-related complications

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4. Severe cases of hypothyroidism can lead to health complications like heart failure and stroke. Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone replacement, which can reverse most of these negative effects.

The thyroid and heart are closely connected, even when symptoms are hard to spot. With early testing, healthy habits, and the right treatment, both can stay strong and function well for years to come.

FAQs on High Cholesterol Levels as a Sign of Hypothyroidism:

1. Can high cholesterol be a sign of hypothyroidism?

Yes, high cholesterol, particularly LDL or “bad” cholesterol, is common in individuals with hypothyroidism, as the condition affects how your body processes fats.

2. How does hypothyroidism lead to high cholesterol?

When thyroid hormone levels are low, your metabolism slows down, and your body processes fats more slowly, leading to higher levels of cholesterol in the blood.

3. Should I get my thyroid checked if I have high cholesterol?

If you have high cholesterol that doesn’t respond to conventional treatments, it’s advisable to get your thyroid checked. A simple blood test can help determine if hypothyroidism is the underlying cause.

4. Can treating hypothyroidism lower my cholesterol levels?

Treating hypothyroidism with thyroid hormone replacement can help normalize your cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.