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Unintentional weight loss and palpitations leading to the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism in primary care: a case report

Konul ABDULLAYEVA, Zarına AYIK and Mevsim VILDAN

Unintentional weight loss, palpitations, and fatigue are common but non-specific complaints in primary care. These symptoms are frequently attributed to stress, anxiety, or lifestyle factors, particularly in young and middle-aged adults. However, endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism must be considered, as delayed diagnosis may lead to significant cardiovascular and metabolic complications. Primary care plays a critical role in early recognition and appropriate referral.A 34-year-old woman presented to a primary care clinic with a two-month history of palpitations, fatigue, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, nervousness, insomnia, and a 5-kg unintentional weight loss despite increased appetite. She also reported exertional dyspnea when climbing stairs. She had no known chronic disease and was not using regular medication. Family history was positive for thyroid disease on the maternal side. On examination, she appeared anxious but cooperative. Blood pressure was 120/70 mmHg, heart rate 112 beats/min, and temperature 36.7°C. Physical examination revealed a mildly enlarged, non-tender thyroid gland, fine bilateral hand tremor, warm moist skin, and regular tachycardia. Based on clinical suspicion, targeted laboratory tests were ordered. Results showed suppressed TSH (<0.01 µIU/mL) with elevated free T4 (2.8 ng/dL) and free T3 (6.1 pg/mL), confirming hyperthyroidism.This case illustrates how classic hyperthyroid features may initially present as non-specific complaints and highlights the diagnostic value of focused history-taking and physical examination in primary care.Unintentional weight loss combined with palpitations and tremor should prompt thyroid function testing in primary care. Early recognition enables timely intervention and prevents avoidable complications.The overlap between hyperthyroidism and anxiety-related symptoms can delay diagnosis. Primary care physicians are uniquely positioned to integrate clinical clues and initiate appropriate investigations.Systematic clinical assessment in primary care allowed early diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and  timely referral, underscoring the essential role of family physicians in managing endocrine presentations. MeSH key words Hyperthyroidism; Graves Disease; Weight Loss; Palpitations; Primary Health Care; Family Medicine; Thyroid Hormones