What is one notable sign of a thyroid storm?

A notable sign of a thyroid storm includes psychotic delirium, which presents as a marked change in mental status. Thyroid storm is a severe, life-threatening condition characterized by an extreme overproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to a hypermetabolic state. This state can significantly affect the central nervous system, resulting in acute confusion, agitation, or even psychosis. The presence of psychotic delirium indicates the severity of the hyperthyroid condition and the critical need for immediate medical intervention.

In the context of thyroid storm, other signs such as high blood pressure may be present due to the increased metabolic activity of the body, but they are not as specifically indicative of the condition as the changes in mental status. A subnormal temperature and decreased respiratory rate are also not consistent with a thyroid storm, as the condition typically leads to hyperthermia and tachycardia rather than a drop in temperature or respiratory depression.