What is a common physical characteristic of a patient with hypothyroidism?

A common physical characteristic of a patient with hypothyroidism is obesity. This condition leads to a decreased metabolic rate due to insufficient thyroid hormone levels, which can result in weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Other symptoms often associated with hypothyroidism include fatigue, cold intolerance, and dry skin.

The slowing of the metabolism affects how the body processes food and energy, leading to increased fat accumulation and difficulty in maintaining a healthy weight. It is important to recognize this symptom, as it can significantly affect the patient's overall health and quality of life.

While other symptoms like brittle hair can also occur in hypothyroidism, they are not as central to the condition as obesity is. This understanding is crucial for monitoring and managing patients with this endocrine disorder effectively.