Yes, hypothyroidism can cause an increase in diastolic blood pressure. This is because it causes reduced heart rate and makes the arteries less elastic, and to compensate for this, the blood pressure rises to circulate sufficiently in the body.
Please note that high blood pressure is not a common symptom of hypothyroidism. However, if you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and are experiencing high blood pressure, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, which regulates the metabolism and other functions of the body. Hypothyroidism can cause various symptoms, such as fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, depression, and menstrual problems.
One of the possible complications of hypothyroidism is high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. High blood pressure means that the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, which can damage the heart and blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
According to some studies, about 30% of people with hypothyroidism have high blood pressure, especially diastolic pressure, which is the lower number in a blood pressure reading. This may be because hypothyroidism causes the heart rate to slow down and the arteries to become less elastic, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. The body may increase blood pressure to maintain adequate circulation to compensate for this.
The good news is that treating hypothyroidism with thyroid hormone replacement therapy can help lower blood pressure and improve the cardiovascular health of people with hypothyroidism. However, it is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and follow the advice of your healthcare provider, as some people may need additional medication or lifestyle changes to control their blood pressure.
