Heart Failure Clinical Manifestations Explained

Heart failure, commonly referring to chronic heart failure, represents the final clinical stage of various cardiac diseases leading to impaired heart function. It is characterized by reduced cardiac output and compromised circulatory performance. The diminished pumping ability of the heart results in symptoms such as low blood pressure, general weakness, and a state of systemic ischemia and hypoxia.

Key Symptoms of Chronic Heart Failure

One of the primary manifestations of heart failure is poor blood return, which leads to systemic venous congestion. This congestion can cause fluid buildup in various parts of the body, including the liver and lungs. Pulmonary congestion, in particular, often presents as shortness of breath, especially during the night in the form of paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.

Respiratory Distress in Heart Failure Patients

As heart failure progresses, patients may experience increasing difficulty in breathing while lying flat, a condition known as orthopnea. This often forces individuals to sleep in a more upright position to ease their discomfort and improve airflow.

Systemic Effects of Heart Failure

In addition to respiratory symptoms, chronic heart failure can lead to hepatic congestion, where the liver becomes engorged with blood due to impaired venous return. This can result in liver dysfunction and contribute to further systemic complications. The overall decline in circulatory efficiency affects multiple organs and can lead to fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, and generalized weakness.