What should you know about right-sided heart failure?

This is a form of heart failure, rather than the heart stopping. It may occur alongside weakness of the left side, or develop when conditions affecting the lungs or the blood vessels in the lungs place extra strain on the right ventricle.

Raised pressure in the veins can cause swelling in the ankles, legs or abdomen. Some people notice rapid changes in body weight from retained fluid, a tight waistband, or discomfort under the ribs on the right. Breathlessness may be present, especially when left-sided heart failure or lung disease is also involved.

Tiredness and reduced ability to walk or climb stairs can result from lower blood flow and the effort of carrying extra fluid. A cough or awareness of a fast or irregular heartbeat may point to another part of the heart or lungs being affected, so symptoms need an individual assessment.

A clinician may review your symptoms, medicines and medical history, examine your neck veins, lungs and legs, and check your blood pressure, pulse and oxygen level. Tests can include blood tests, an electrocardiogram, chest imaging and an echocardiogram. The aim is to identify the cause and see how well the heart is pumping.

Management may include medicines that reduce fluid or ease the heart's workload, treatment of an underlying rhythm, blood-pressure or lung problem, and practical guidance about salt, fluids, activity and daily weight checks. Do not change a diuretic or stop prescribed treatment without medical advice. A planned chronic disease review can help track swelling, breathing, kidney function and medicine effects.

Arrange prompt medical advice if ankle or abdominal swelling is new, worsening, or accompanied by increasing tiredness, breathlessness, a persistent cough, or a noticeable change in your heartbeat. These symptoms have several possible causes, and an examination can distinguish fluid retention from other problems.

Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, chest pressure or pain, fainting, new confusion, blue or grey lips, or a racing heartbeat with weakness or dizziness. While waiting for help, sit upright, avoid exertion, and take only medicines that have already been prescribed for this situation.

Ask what is putting strain on the right side of your heart, whether the left side or lungs are involved, which symptoms should trigger a same-day call, and how to monitor swelling or weight at home. You can also ask what each medicine is for, when it should be taken, and which over-the-counter medicines may worsen fluid retention.