Why does right heart failure cause hepatic congestion?

Right heart failure refers to the failure of the right side of the heart. Right heart failure leads to increased systemic venous return and resistance, which in turn may cause hepatic congestion. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Right heart failure refers to functional impairment of the right ventricle due to problems with filling and/or ejection, commonly caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary embolism, or long-standing left heart failure, resulting in impaired right ventricular pumping function. Generally, during an episode of this condition, right atrial pressure increases, reducing the heart's ability to receive returning blood, leading to congestion in the vena cava. If left untreated over a prolonged period, this can trigger hepatic congestion, manifesting as hepatomegaly, gastrointestinal swelling, and bilateral lower limb edema.

For this condition, prompt visit to the cardiology department of a hospital is recommended. Under medical guidance, medications such as benazepril hydrochloride tablets or carvedilol tablets may be used for treatment. Additionally, liver-protective agents such as hepaprotective tablets or inosine tablets should be administered concurrently. For eligible patients, surgical intervention may also be considered.

In daily life, patients are advised to ensure adequate rest and avoid strenuous physical activity, which could increase cardiac workload and impair recovery.