Which of the following symptoms is associated with Graves' disease?

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Prepare for the UCF MCB2004C Microbiology for Health Professionals Exam 4. Explore interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your test with confidence!

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism, characterized by an overproduction of thyroid hormones. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is the presence of tremors and bulging eyes, known as exophthalmos. The hyperthyroid state stimulates the nervous system, resulting in increased metabolic activity, which can lead to tremors. Exophthalmos occurs due to inflammation and swelling of the eye muscles and tissue behind the eyes, giving them a bulging appearance.

In contrast, the other symptoms listed in the question are more typical of hypothyroidism, a condition opposite to Graves’ disease. Weight gain and increased sensitivity to cold are associated with hypothyroid conditions, where metabolic processes slow down, causing the body to become less efficient at generating heat and leading to weight gain due to a reduced metabolic rate. Joint pain can be a symptom experienced in various conditions, but it is not specifically associated with Graves’ disease. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the distinctive and characteristic symptoms you would expect to see in someone suffering from Graves' disease.