Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What common gastrointestinal symptom is associated with hyperparathyroidism?

1. Diarrhea

2. Nausea and vomiting

3. Constipation

4. Heartburn

The correct answer is: Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are commonly associated with hyperparathyroidism due to the condition’s impact on calcium levels in the body. Hyperparathyroidism leads to elevated calcium levels, a condition known as hypercalcemia. High calcium levels can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, which often manifests as symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. This gastrointestinal disturbance is particularly notable in patients who experience severe hypercalcemia, where the normal functioning of the digestive system is disrupted. In contrast, while other gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation might occur in various conditions, they are less typical for hyperparathyroidism. Constipation, for example, can occur due to various reasons including dietary factors or medications, but it is generally not a primary symptom associated with elevated parathyroid hormone levels. Therefore, it is the combination of hypercalcemia and its effects on the digestive system that predominantly leads to nausea and vomiting in individuals with hyperparathyroidism.