Which of the following clinical manifestations is consistent with right-sided heart failure?
Disease description:
I’ve felt something off with my heart over the past few days and am worried it might be heart failure. What are the clinical manifestations consistent with right-sided heart failure?
Clinical manifestations of right-sided heart failure include jugular venous distension—visible engorgement and protrusion of the neck veins above the skin surface. This may lead to secondary gastrointestinal congestion, resulting in symptoms such as abdominal distension, anorexia, and persistent vomiting. Pulmonary congestion may also occur, causing dyspnea. Additionally, patients often develop generalized edema that begins in the feet and progresses upward; in severe cases, ascites or pleural effusion may develop. Prompt medical treatment is recommended upon onset of symptoms.