Anxiety in Subclinical Thyroid Conditions

Few studies until now have looked at the connection between subclinical thyroid problems and anxiety. Researchers set out to look at the connection between anxiety and subclinical thyroid dysfunction, grouping patients as subclinically hyperthyroid (TSH lower than 0.1 mU/L), subclinically hypothyroid with (TSH higher than 4.5 mU/L) and euthyroid (normal TSH levels). A test known as the Beck's Anxiety Inventory (BAI) was given to all patients.

The research showed that both the subclinical hypothyroid and subclinical hyperthyroid groups had significantly higher anxiety scores than euthyroid group, and subclinical thyroid problems increase anxiety in patients -- whether hyperthyroid or hypothyroid.

The researchers indicated that because mood changes, and especially anxiety due to subclinical thyroid problems may affect quality of life significantly, these effects may be enough to warrant treatment.

Mustafa Sait Gonen, et al. "Assessment of Anxiety in Subclinical Thyroid Disorders" Endocr J Vol. 51: 311-315, (2004).

GET MORE INFORMATION

• Your Emotions and Stress -- Ideas on Managing Chronic Disease
• Panic Attacks and Palpitations: Are They Signs of Hyperthyroidism?
• Depression, Anxiety and the Connection to Thyroid Disease