Can high thyroid levels impact heart health?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 31-year-old female. I have been drinking a bottle of wine each day for weeks and not eating healthily. Five days ago, I woke up with a pounding pain in my chest and a racing heart. Since then, I have experienced a wide range of symptoms, including pain in both arms, pain in my left shoulder, muscle spasms in my left shoulder, a tight feeling in my chest, pains on both sides of my body, shooting pain in my armpits, and headaches for five consecutive days.

Today, I also experienced dizziness, a feeling of fullness, and indigestion. My arms and legs feel weak, and I have a sore back. I went to the doctor, who sent me for blood work and a chest X-ray. I have not received a callback, so I assume the results are fine. I had an EKG and Holter monitor test just over a year ago. I am currently taking 20 mg of Citalopram for anxiety and taking a month off from fertility treatments. My fertility doctor mentioned that my thyroid levels are slightly elevated at 6.3, so he is sending me for further testing. I am worried that I might be having a heart attack.

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Well, none of the symptoms indicate a serious heart issue. When we consider the whole situation, there are various aspects of your health that may have contributed to the recent intensification of these issues. Elevated thyroid levels can directly impact heart rate and its function as a pump. They also affect overall body functions, such as digestion, general well-being, mood, and energy levels. The thyroid plays a crucial role in driving our body’s daily activities. A malfunctioning thyroid can cause many of the symptoms you have recently observed.

I understand that you are taking 20 mg of Citalopram. Sometimes, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage of your medication, so you should consult your treating physician if you feel this is needed. Medication side effects may also have contributed to your recent symptoms. Additionally, taking a break from fertility treatment can lead to a wide range of symptoms like the ones you are experiencing due to changes in your hormonal balance. However, this is temporary, and once you resume your medications or your body’s own mechanisms restore hormonal balance, you should start to feel better.

Consuming alcohol at this stage can be harmful to your health and may exacerbate your symptoms. However, heart disease is unlikely to be the cause of these issues. If your laboratory results are all normal, I am not particularly concerned about any serious issues. For headaches, you may take Ibuprofen as needed. It is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet and to establish a workout routine, as this will help boost your energy levels. Following up with your thyroid doctor is crucial, as thyroid issues can also contribute to fertility problems. A normally functioning thyroid is essential for everyone.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.