Right-sided heart failure commonly presents with which finding?

Right-sided heart failure commonly presents with which finding?

• A. Pedal Edema
• B. Hypotension
• C. Headache
• D. Nausea

Answer: (A)

Right-sided heart failure causes systemic venous congestion because the right ventricle isn’t effectively moving blood into the lungs. This back-pressure raises hydrostatic pressure in peripheral capillaries, so fluid leaks into tissues, especially in dependent areas where gravity pools it. Pedal edema becomes a classic sign as fluid collects in the legs and feet. While other symptoms like hypotension can occur if the condition worsens severely, they’re not typical hallmarks of chronic right-sided failure, and headache or nausea aren’t specific findings for this condition. You may also see signs such as jugular venous distension, hepatomegaly, or ascites, reflecting the widespread venous congestion.

Right-sided heart failure causes systemic venous congestion because the right ventricle isn’t effectively moving blood into the lungs. This back-pressure raises hydrostatic pressure in peripheral capillaries, so fluid leaks into tissues, especially in dependent areas where gravity pools it. Pedal edema becomes a classic sign as fluid collects in the legs and feet. While other symptoms like hypotension can occur if the condition worsens severely, they’re not typical hallmarks of chronic right-sided failure, and headache or nausea aren’t specific findings for this condition. You may also see signs such as jugular venous distension, hepatomegaly, or ascites, reflecting the widespread venous congestion.