Final answer:
Patients with fever and hyperthyroidism are at risk of hypoxia due to increased metabolic rate. Patient A likely has hypothyroidism, while Patient B likely has hyperthyroidism, based on their symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing patients with hypoxia due to increased metabolic rates, we need to consider conditions that elevate the body's metabolism. Patients with fever and those with hyperthyroidism are at risk of hypoxia because both conditions can significantly increase the metabolic rate. Fever increases the body's temperature and, in turn, its metabolic demands, while hyperthyroidism leads to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, which escalates the body's metabolic processes.
Patient A, with symptoms of weight gain, cold sensitivity, low heart rate, and fatigue, is most likely experiencing hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive leading to a decreased metabolism. On the other hand, Patient B, who is experiencing weight loss, profuse sweating, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping, has signs of hyperthyroidism, which causes an overactive gland and increased metabolism.