Which set of symptoms is commonly associated with hypothyroidism?

Which set of symptoms is commonly associated with hypothyroidism?

• A. Heat intolerance and weight loss
• B. Goiter formation, myxedema, decreased metabolic rate, cold intolerance, hair loss, dry skin, fatigue, brittle nails and hair, weight gain
• C. Exophthalmos
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (B)

Hypothyroidism slows the body's metabolic rate, so you see symptoms tied to reduced energy production and heat generation. This cluster includes cold intolerance and weight gain from the slower metabolism, along with fatigue. The skin becomes dry and the hair and nails may become brittle or thin, and hair loss can occur. Myxedema is a more advanced sign reflecting mucopolysaccharide buildup in the skin, and a goiter can form as the thyroid is damaged or stimulated by TSH. Taken together, these features—decreased metabolic rate, cold intolerance, weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, hair loss/brittle hair and nails, possible myxedema, and goiter—constitute the classic presentation of hypothyroidism. Heat intolerance with weight loss points to hyperthyroidism. Exophthalmos is a sign more associated with Graves’ disease (a form of hyperthyroidism). Weight gain alone is not as distinctive as the full, characteristic symptom pattern described above.

Hypothyroidism slows the body's metabolic rate, so you see symptoms tied to reduced energy production and heat generation. This cluster includes cold intolerance and weight gain from the slower metabolism, along with fatigue. The skin becomes dry and the hair and nails may become brittle or thin, and hair loss can occur. Myxedema is a more advanced sign reflecting mucopolysaccharide buildup in the skin, and a goiter can form as the thyroid is damaged or stimulated by TSH. Taken together, these features—decreased metabolic rate, cold intolerance, weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, hair loss/brittle hair and nails, possible myxedema, and goiter—constitute the classic presentation of hypothyroidism.

Heat intolerance with weight loss points to hyperthyroidism. Exophthalmos is a sign more associated with Graves’ disease (a form of hyperthyroidism). Weight gain alone is not as distinctive as the full, characteristic symptom pattern described above.