4. Cardiovascular Changes – The Heart’s Burden
The heart does not escape the pervasive influence of Myxedema Coma. Thyroid hormones are critical for cardiovascular health, influencing heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output. When these hormones dwindle to dangerously low levels, the heart struggles to perform its vital functions.
Patients may notice a slowing of their heartbeat, known as bradycardia. The pulse that once beat strong and steady becomes sluggish, a metronome losing its rhythm. This can be accompanied by a drop in blood pressure, leaving the patient feeling faint or dizzy upon standing. It’s as if the body’s vital signs are winding down, preparing for a shutdown.
The changes don’t stop with bradycardia and hypotension. There’s a risk of pericardial effusion, where fluid accumulates around the heart, further compromising its function. The heart, encased in this unwelcome embrace, struggles to pump effectively, leading to a reduction in cardiac output and potential heart failure.
Monitoring and managing these cardiovascular changes are non-negotiable. They necessitate the use of EKGs to track heart rhythms and echocardiograms to assess the heart’s structure and function. Treatment must be swift and may include fluid management, the introduction of thyroid hormones, and support for the failing heart.
The body’s reliance on thyroid hormones is evident in the profound cardiovascular changes seen in Myxedema Coma. It’s a delicate balancing act to restore these levels without overwhelming a heart that’s already under strain. The focus must always be on stabilizing the heart’s rhythm and ensuring it can continue to sustain life as the rest of the body heals. (4)
