Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include which of the following?

1. Weight loss and hyperactivity

2. Weight gain and dry skin

3. Increased heart rate and agitation

4. Hyperthermia and high blood pressure

The correct answer is: Weight gain and dry skin

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for metabolism and overall energy regulation in the body. One of the hallmark symptoms of hypothyroidism is weight gain, as a decrease in metabolic rate commonly occurs when thyroid hormone levels are low. Additionally, individuals with hypothyroidism may experience dry skin due to a decrease in the activity of oil and sweat glands, as these glands depend on thyroid hormones for proper function. Together, these two symptoms—weight gain and dry skin—are very characteristic of hypothyroidism. The other choices describe symptoms typically associated with hyperthyroidism or other conditions rather than hypothyroidism. For example, weight loss and hyperactivity are more common in hyperthyroidism, where increased hormone production speeds up metabolism. Similarly, increased heart rate and agitation are associated with hyperactivity of the thyroid and are not typical of hypothyroidism. Hyperthermia and high blood pressure are also indicative of hyperthyroidism, as the increased metabolism often leads to elevated body temperature and cardiovascular responses. Thus, the combination of weight gain and dry skin strongly aligns with the pathophysiological changes seen in hypothyroidism.