In a nutshell
This study investigated if fatigue (tiredness) after a stroke is associated with the blood levels of the thyroid hormone TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). Researchers suggested that TSH levels may have a role in fatigue after a stroke.
Some background
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the US. A stroke consists of a blockage of one of the veins that supply the brain with oxygen. If the brain is not constantly receiving oxygen, brain cells die causing irreparable damage.
Fatigue is experienced by 23 to 85% of the patients who had a stroke. It may negatively affect stroke recovery and long-term outcomes. This symptom can go unnoticed by the doctor, family or caregivers of the patient. Although, fatigue is associated with depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Prior studies showed that thyroid hormones are associated with stroke outcomes. However, the relation between TSH levels and fatigue after a stroke remains under investigation.
Methods & findings
This study included information about 704 patients with stroke. TSH blood levels were measured in admission and tiredness was assessed after the stroke.
Of the 704 patients with stroke, 292 (41.5%) showed fatigue immediately after the stroke. 224 (35.3%) patients showed fatigue at six months after the stroke. ? In the phase immediately after the stroke, low TSH was associated with severe fatigue. A lower TSH blood level was associated with a 70% higher risk of developing fatigue after immediately after stroke. This risk was 30% 6 months after the stroke.
The bottom line
This study concluded that TSH blood levels may predict fatigue after a stroke.
The fine print
THS levels were measured only once, therefore it is not known whether TSH changes happened before or after the stroke.
Published By :
Neurology
Date :
Oct 26, 2018
