Which of the following is NOT a sign or symptom of fluid overload?

Fluid overload is a condition that occurs when there is an excess of fluid in the body's compartments, leading to various signs and symptoms. Edema, which is the swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in tissues, is a commonly recognized indicator of fluid overload. Shortness of breath can also occur, particularly when pulmonary edema is present, as fluid in the lungs can impair respiratory function. Hypertension, or elevated blood pressure, is often associated with higher fluid volumes in the vascular system, putting additional strain on the heart and blood vessels.

In contrast, an increased heart rate, while it can be a response to various conditions, is not a direct sign of fluid overload itself. It may occur in various other scenarios, such as during physical exertion, stress, or in response to certain medical conditions, but it is not specific to fluid overload. The relationship between heart rate and fluid status is more complex, and while fluid overload may lead to changes in heart rate, it's not a defining symptom of the condition. Therefore, identifying increased heart rate as not being a sign of fluid overload helps clarify the specific indicators related to fluid balance.