Which physical finding is commonly seen in hyperthyroidism during an examination?

Which physical finding is commonly seen in hyperthyroidism during an examination?

• A. Hyperreflexia
• B. Hyporeflexia
• C. Normal reflexes
• D. Absent reflexes

Answer: (A)

Excess thyroid hormone makes nerves and muscles more excitable, speeding up nerve conduction and increasing the responsiveness of reflex pathways. In hyperthyroidism you typically see brisk deep tendon reflexes when you test them, especially in the ankles and knees. This hyperreflexia reflects heightened neuromuscular irritability from thyrotoxicosis and is a common exam finding. By contrast, reflexes may be normal or reduced only if there’s concurrent muscle weakness from thyrotoxic myopathy, but the usual, expected finding in hyperthyroidism is a brisk reflex response. You’ll also notice other signs of increased metabolism like tremor, tachycardia, weight loss, and warm skin as supportive context.

Excess thyroid hormone makes nerves and muscles more excitable, speeding up nerve conduction and increasing the responsiveness of reflex pathways. In hyperthyroidism you typically see brisk deep tendon reflexes when you test them, especially in the ankles and knees. This hyperreflexia reflects heightened neuromuscular irritability from thyrotoxicosis and is a common exam finding. By contrast, reflexes may be normal or reduced only if there’s concurrent muscle weakness from thyrotoxic myopathy, but the usual, expected finding in hyperthyroidism is a brisk reflex response. You’ll also notice other signs of increased metabolism like tremor, tachycardia, weight loss, and warm skin as supportive context.