Bradycardia with HYPERthyroid?

  I am a 47 year old female and for four years now I have been having bradycardia. My heart beat is now as low as 40bpm and the last time I was in the hospital they tested my thyroid and found it was at a high level TSH was 12. Bradycardia sometimes happens with hypothyroid and hyperthyroid with tachycardia. So far no answers. The doctors is thinking about checking my adrenline levels next. Has anyone heard of this problem? I'm am exhausted and weak almost all of the time.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Yes, bradycardia is usually associated with hypothyroidism and tachycardia with hyperthyroidism. However there have been a few studies that indicate that rarely bradycardia could be related to hyperthyroidism as well. A high TSH does not always mean hypothyroidism and an entire T3/ T4 panel should be considered. Also, other secondary causes of bradycardia may need to be looked into.
Hope this information is helpful.

Take care!