Hypothyroidism and hypertension

Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther. 2010 Nov;8(11):1559-65. doi: 10.1586/erc.10.141.

Abstract

Hypothyroidism has been recognized as a cause of secondary hypertension. Previous studies on the prevalence of hypertension in subjects with hypothyroidism have demonstrated elevated blood pressure values. Increased peripheral vascular resistance and low cardiac output has been suggested to be the possible link between hypothyroidism and diastolic hypertension. The hypothyroid population is characterized by significant volume changes, initiating a volume-dependent, low plasma renin activity mechanism of blood pressure elevation. This article summarizes previous studies on the impact of hypothyroidism on blood pressure and early atherosclerotic process.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Pressure / physiology
  • Cardiac Output / physiology
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / etiology*
  • Hypertension / physiopathology
  • Hypothyroidism / complications*
  • Hypothyroidism / drug therapy*
  • Hypothyroidism / physiopathology
  • Renin / blood
  • Thyroid Hormones / therapeutic use*
  • Vascular Resistance / physiology

Substances

  • Thyroid Hormones
  • Renin