Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Myxedema coma

Myxedema coma is a rare condition that needs emergency care. It can occur in a person who has untreated, severe hypothyroidism. It usually occurs in older adults who have other illnesses, such as a serious infection or heart attack, along with their hypothyroidism.

These life-threatening symptoms may occur:

Mental deterioration such as apathy, confusion, and psychosis
Extremely low body temperature (hypothermia)
Extremely slow heartbeat (fewer than 60 beats a minute)
Heart failure
Respiratory failure

Death can occur if myxedema coma is not treated. Emergency treatment may include thyroid hormone replacement given in a vein (intravenously) and steroid therapy.