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Can thyroid problems cause fluctuation in heart rate and Bp?

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Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had a highly varying HR (63 to 128 beats per minute at rest) and BP (109/78 mmHg to 154/104 mmHg at rest) for around three days. I consulted my doctor on the third day and started taking Propranolol 20 mg thrice daily for seven days and twice a day after seven days. Recently, I was having discomfort and slight pain in the chest. Please help.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

As seen in your brief history, there are some fluctuations in your blood pressure as well as heart rate. I would advise you to get an ECG or electrocardiogram done as soon as possible, as we have to see what sort of heart rhythm you are on. The doctor who suggested that you take Propranolol must have done your ECG. So, if it is a sinus rhythm (normal fluctuating rhythm), then it is not much to worry about. But, if it is some sort of abnormal rhythm (arrhythmia), then it has to be taken care of.

Secondly, Propranolol 20 mg thrice a day is quite a heavy dose. Propranolol 10 mg twice a day should be started and should be increased every week if required. If you are having chest discomfort after taking Propranolol, then just drop the medication this morning and at noon and see if you are normal.

As of now, I would like to have a detailed history of you as cardiology suggestions can only be given after taking a detailed history.

  1. What is your age?
  2. Is there any history of early-onset cardiac disease in your family?
  3. For how long have you been hypertensive?
  4. Are you an anxious personality?
  5. How is your sleep?
  6. Do you have heartburn, gastritis, or flatulence very often?
  7. Please explain your lifestyle.
  8. Do you smoke or drink alcohol?
  9. Do you have any history of arrhythmias in the family?
  10. Was Propranolol advised by your GP or cardiologist?

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I had an ECG before Propranolol was prescribed, and it was suggested by a retired professor of medical college, a general physician. I am 31 years old. In my family, my father underwent a heart bypass at the age of 59, and my paternal grandmother is living on a pacemaker. And several others in the paternal family suffered from heart-related problems. I am a vegetarian, and I do not smoke or drink. Usually, I get a good night's sleep, but mostly at night. Nowadays, I am having nearly four to five hours of disturbed sleep. I have not been under any kind of medication except Levothyroxine sodium 75 for my thyroid for the past three years.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

When we treat a patient for hypothyroidism, we use to monitor the TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) level every three months. Elevated levels of TSH can cause palpitations. Do not go for any cardiac tests right now. Send me all your previous reports on your thyroid profile. Your palpitations are most likely because of elevated TSH. Keep taking Propranolol 20 mg twice a day and get a thyroid profile done.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Rishu Sharma

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At December 15, 2016
Reviewed AtMarch 30, 2026

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