What should you know about right and left heart failure?

The left side sends oxygen-rich blood around the body. When it cannot pump or fill effectively, pressure may build toward the lungs, causing breathlessness, cough or reduced exercise tolerance. The right side sends blood toward the lungs. When its function is reduced, blood can back up in the veins, leading to swollen ankles, leg heaviness or abdominal swelling. The two patterns often occur together because strain on one side can affect the other. Atrial fibrillation and hypertension can contribute to heart strain, but symptoms alone cannot identify the cause.

Arrange a clinical review for new or worsening breathlessness, fatigue, palpitations or ankle swelling. Bring a list of medicines and note changes in weight, sleep position, walking ability and swelling. Take prescribed treatment as directed, keep follow-up appointments and ask before changing medicines or salt and fluid habits. A chronic disease review can help check blood pressure, rhythm, kidney function, symptoms and the response to treatment.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness at rest, chest pressure, fainting, blue or grey lips, sudden confusion or coughing up pink frothy fluid. Seek prompt clinical advice if swelling rapidly worsens, you cannot lie flat because of breathing difficulty, or your heartbeat becomes persistently irregular with weakness or dizziness.

Ask which side appears most affected, what tests will clarify pumping and filling, how to monitor swelling or breathlessness at home, and which changes should trigger an urgent call.