Which option best lists the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Which option best lists the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

• A. Weight Loss, Heat Intolerance, Tremor
• B. Hyperactivity and insomnia
• C. Facial Edema, JVD, Cool Skin, Cold Sensitivity, Hypothermia, Coma, Weakness, Weight Gain
• D. Shortness of breath on exertion

Answer: (C)

Hypothyroidism slows the body's metabolism, so patients tend to gain weight and feel cold. The skin often becomes cool, and there can be edema from fluid buildup (myxedema), especially in the face. In severe, untreated cases, mental status changes, hypothermia, and even coma can occur, with weakness and fatigue commonly present. The option that includes facial edema, cool skin, cold sensitivity, hypothermia, coma, weakness, and weight gain captures these typical findings, making it the best choice. The other options point to hyperthyroidism signs—weight loss with heat intolerance and tremor, or hyperactivity and insomnia—which are the opposite of what hypothyroidism causes. A standalone symptom like shortness of breath on exertion is nonspecific and not diagnostic for hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism slows the body's metabolism, so patients tend to gain weight and feel cold. The skin often becomes cool, and there can be edema from fluid buildup (myxedema), especially in the face. In severe, untreated cases, mental status changes, hypothermia, and even coma can occur, with weakness and fatigue commonly present. The option that includes facial edema, cool skin, cold sensitivity, hypothermia, coma, weakness, and weight gain captures these typical findings, making it the best choice.

The other options point to hyperthyroidism signs—weight loss with heat intolerance and tremor, or hyperactivity and insomnia—which are the opposite of what hypothyroidism causes. A standalone symptom like shortness of breath on exertion is nonspecific and not diagnostic for hypothyroidism.