Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

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What is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism?

Weight gain
Bulging eyes
Fatigue
Dry skin

The correct answer is: Bulging eyes

Bulging eyes, known as exophthalmos, is a characteristic feature associated with hyperthyroidism, particularly in conditions like Graves' disease. Hyperthyroidism leads to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, which can stimulate thyroid tissue growth behind the eyes. This can cause the eyes to protrude, creating the appearance of bulging. This symptom is significant because it not only illustrates the effect of hyperthyroidism on the body but also serves as a visual indicator that can aid in diagnosis. Patients may also experience other systemic symptoms, such as increased metabolism, weight loss, and nervousness, but bulging eyes are specifically linked to this thyroid condition, making it a distinctive symptom that resonates with the pathophysiology of hyperthyroidism. Other symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and dry skin are typically more characteristic of hypothyroidism, where thyroid hormone levels are low, leading to decreased metabolic activity and energy levels. Thus, identifying bulging eyes as a symptom of hyperthyroidism is important for distinguishing this condition from others related to thyroid dysfunction.