8. Rapid Heart Rate or Palpitations – A Sign of Hidden Hormonal Havoc
The thyroid gland might be small, but it plays a colossal role in our bodies. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, which in turn influences a multitude of body functions, including heart rate. Thus, when FTC comes into play, it can potentially lead to an imbalance in these hormones, causing a ripple effect that can result in a rapid heart rate or palpitations.
In essence palpitations are feelings of having a fast, fluttering, or pounding heart. They can be scary but are usually not harmful and often occur due to anxiety, stress, or high caffeine intake. However, persistent heart palpitations or an unusually high resting heart rate that’s coupled with other FTC symptoms can be a red flag.
The thyroid gland produces thyroxine, a hormone that controls metabolism. When FTC disrupts the thyroid gland’s functioning, it can lead to an overproduction or underproduction of this hormone. An excess of thyroid hormone can rev up your body’s functions, like a car with a racing engine, leading to symptoms such as a rapid heart rate or palpitations, increased appetite, sweating, and anxiety.
This said, these symptoms are not exclusive to FTC and are commonly seen in less severe conditions, such as hyperthyroidism. Therefore, it’s essential to consider these symptoms as part of a bigger picture. When present alongside other FTC symptoms, these heart-related symptoms can aid healthcare professionals in reaching a diagnosis.
Again, it’s essential to remember that these symptoms are generally seen in more advanced FTC or aggressive forms of the disease. So, while it’s important not to ignore these symptoms, it’s equally crucial to not panic. If you’re experiencing persistent heart palpitations or a rapid heart rate, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider to get to the root of the issue. (8)
