How does fluid overload typically present in a patient?

Fluid overload in a patient often presents with signs that indicate an excess of fluid retention in the body. One of the primary manifestations is edema, which is the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues. Increased blood pressure occurs because the additional fluid increases the overall blood volume, putting more pressure on the arterial walls. Additionally, patients may experience difficulty breathing as the fluid can accumulate in the lungs, leading to pulmonary congestion or even pulmonary edema.

In contrast, the other options present symptoms that are not typical for fluid overload. For example, dry skin, weight loss, and decreased blood pressure are more indicative of dehydration or hypovolemia rather than excess fluid. Similarly, reduced urine output and cool extremities suggest inadequate blood flow or low fluid volume, which contradicts the scenario of fluid overload. Fever, while it may accompany various conditions, is not a direct symptom of fluid overload. Therefore, the combination of edema, increased blood pressure, and possible difficulty breathing accurately captures the clinical presentation associated with fluid overload.