What physical finding may be associated with fluid overload in patients with heart failure?

Fluid overload in patients with heart failure often leads to the accumulation of fluid in various body compartments. One common manifestation is abdominal distension caused by ascites, which is the abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity. This occurs due to increased hydrostatic pressure within the blood vessels and can lead to significant swelling and discomfort.

Other options do not reflect the typical findings associated with fluid overload in heart failure. For example, decreased blood pressure may occur in certain situations but is not directly indicative of fluid overload. Similarly, weight loss over time is generally not associated with fluid overload; instead, patients may experience weight gain due to fluid retention. Increased energy levels are also not typical, as fluid overload can lead to fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance due to the heart's diminished capacity to pump effectively.