Which symptoms are characteristic of heart failure?

Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome that arises from the heart's inability to pump sufficiently to meet the body's needs for blood and oxygen. The symptoms associated with heart failure primarily stem from fluid overload and reduced cardiac output.

Shortness of breath is a prevalent symptom, commonly felt during physical activity or even at rest as the condition progresses. This symptom can occur due to fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to pulmonary congestion. Fatigue is another key symptom, often resulting from the body’s inadequate oxygen supply and decreased exercise tolerance. Lastly, edema, or swelling, often manifests in the legs, ankles, and abdomen as fluid builds up due to the heart's compromised ability to circulate blood effectively.

These symptoms collectively highlight the body's response to heart failure, making the identification of shortness of breath, fatigue, and edema essential for diagnosis and management.