Autonomic functions as evaluated by orthostatic test in hypothyroid subjects

Present study attempts to compare autonomic functions in fresh, uncomplicated, untreated, clinically ‘hypothyroid’ patients with those in healthy control subjects. The tool used for evaluation of autonomic functions is the Orthostatic Test. This test is inexpensive and very easy to perform. Thus, if found useful, it could be used as a cheaper alternative to expensive biochemical tests for routine screening of patients for hypothyroidism. Using this test, it was finally concluded that lack of thyroid hormone does affect the parasympathetic system but has virtually no effect on the sympathetic system.