Thyroid and Cardiovascular Hemodynamics during Menopause

Abstract

Background- Serious concerns about noncommunicable disease (NCD) healthcare services in a lower-middle-income nation like India arise from the prevalence of cardiovascular illnesses and lifestyle risk factors among middle-aged and elderly people. Women often have a lesser awareness of the risk associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and these conditions are frequently underdiagnosed. Menopause-related problems include an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, and low thyroid hormone levels significantly raise the risk of heart disease.   

Objective- The purpose of this study is to examine how menopause affects thyroid dysfunction and how it relates to lipid profiles and cardiovascular issues.

Methods- Based on selective searches for clinical trials, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and systematic reviews with the keywords "menopause, thyroid, and cardiovascular disorder" in PubMed and Google Scholar (articles from 2001 to 2023), this review was conducted.

Results- There is a strong correlation between hypertriglyceridemia and hypothyroidism. Low thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and menopausal estrogen insufficiency both raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Women with higher TSH levels have stiffer arteries than those with lower TSH levels. When the TSH quartiles increased, the average pulse wave velocity (PWV) values increased linearly. Additionally, it was found that the serum triglyceride level is a strong predictor of the TSH level. 

Conclusion- Following menopause, there is an increased risk of CVD. It is important to treat hyperthyroidism as soon as possible and to take into account the possible link between thyroid abnormalities and cardiovascular disease, as the illness is more common in women. TSH suppression must be avoided in perimenopausal or postmenopausal women taking medication for hypothyroidism.