A 16-year-old adolescent has evidence of weight loss. The PNP notes on the chart documentation of frequent loose stools for 2 weeks. The differential diagnosis includes hyperthyroidism. What additional clinical finding would suggest this diagnosis?

A 16-year-old adolescent has evidence of weight loss. The PNP notes on the chart documentation of frequent loose stools for 2 weeks. The differential diagnosis includes hyperthyroidism. What additional clinical finding would suggest this diagnosis?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Hypotension
• C. Coarse hair
• D. Heat intolerance

Answer: (D)

Hyperthyroidism raises the body's metabolic rate, so patients often feel unusually hot and unable to tolerate warmth. In an adolescent with weight loss and frequent loose stools, heat intolerance is a classic accompanying sign that supports a hyperthyroid process. Dry mouth would suggest dehydration or other causes, not specifically hyperthyroidism. Coarse hair is more typical of hypothyroidism, reflecting slowed metabolism and changes in hair texture. Low blood pressure is not characteristic of hyperthyroidism, which more often presents with signs like tachycardia and sometimes hypertension or widened pulse pressure. Heat intolerance best fits the hyperthyroid picture in this scenario.

Hyperthyroidism raises the body's metabolic rate, so patients often feel unusually hot and unable to tolerate warmth. In an adolescent with weight loss and frequent loose stools, heat intolerance is a classic accompanying sign that supports a hyperthyroid process. Dry mouth would suggest dehydration or other causes, not specifically hyperthyroidism. Coarse hair is more typical of hypothyroidism, reflecting slowed metabolism and changes in hair texture. Low blood pressure is not characteristic of hyperthyroidism, which more often presents with signs like tachycardia and sometimes hypertension or widened pulse pressure. Heat intolerance best fits the hyperthyroid picture in this scenario.