What are typical symptoms of congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) manifests through a combination of symptoms that arise due to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively. The symptoms include dyspnea, which refers to shortness of breath that can occur during exertion or even at rest, as the body struggles to receive adequate oxygenated blood. Fatigue is another common symptom, resulting from reduced cardiac output leading to insufficient oxygen and nutrients for bodily functions, making even routine activities feel exhausting. Edema, the accumulation of fluid in the body tissues, frequently occurs in the legs, ankles, and abdomen due to increased pressure in the blood vessels when the heart is not functioning optimally.

This combination of symptoms—dyspnea, fatigue, and edema—highlights the impact of CHF on both respiratory function and fluid management in the body. The presence of these symptoms presents a clearer clinical picture of congestive heart failure and helps in differentiating it from other potential conditions that might cause similar symptoms, such as respiratory infections or gastrointestinal disturbances.