Which visible sign is associated with hyperthyroidism?

Which visible sign is associated with hyperthyroidism?

• A. Enlarged goiter
• B. Diminished goiter
• C. Eye edema
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (A)

Hyperthyroidism often causes the thyroid gland to enlarge as it’s overstimulated to produce excess hormones. This makes a visible neck swelling, or an enlarged goiter, a common sign you can actually see. Eye signs like bulging or edema can occur in Graves’ disease, but the classic visible sign overall is a goiter. Weight changes are systemic (weight loss is typical with hyperthyroidism), so weight gain wouldn’t fit. A diminished goiter would suggest the thyroid isn’t enlarged, which isn’t consistent with hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism often causes the thyroid gland to enlarge as it’s overstimulated to produce excess hormones. This makes a visible neck swelling, or an enlarged goiter, a common sign you can actually see. Eye signs like bulging or edema can occur in Graves’ disease, but the classic visible sign overall is a goiter. Weight changes are systemic (weight loss is typical with hyperthyroidism), so weight gain wouldn’t fit. A diminished goiter would suggest the thyroid isn’t enlarged, which isn’t consistent with hyperthyroidism.