Which symptom is commonly associated with both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia?

Increased thirst is a symptom that can occur in both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, although it manifests differently in each condition. In hyperglycemia, which is high blood sugar, increased thirst is primarily due to the body's attempt to dilute and eliminate excess glucose. As the kidneys filter excess sugar from the blood, water follows it, leading to dehydration and prompting the sensation of thirst.

In hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, increased thirst can also occur, but it is often related to the body’s stress response. When blood sugar levels drop significantly, the body may respond by releasing stress hormones like adrenaline, which can sometimes lead to feelings of thirst.

Other options are less related or more distinctive to one condition. Weight loss tends to be associated primarily with hyperglycemia due to the body breaking down fat and muscle for energy when insulin is ineffective. Dry skin is also more commonly linked to hyperglycemia as a consequence of dehydration. Fatigue can occur in both conditions, but it is often less prominent in hypoglycemia, where immediate corrective actions can lead to rapid recovery. Thus, increased thirst stands out as a symptom common to both conditions.