What should you know about right sided heart failure?

Right-sided heart failure can cause fluid to collect in the legs, ankles, abdomen, or tissues around the liver. Swollen Ankles, increasing abdominal fullness, breathlessness, fatigue, reduced appetite, and a need to sleep more upright may occur. It often develops alongside problems affecting the left side of the heart or the lungs, but rhythm conditions such as Atrial Fibrillation and long-standing Hypertension can also place strain on the heart. Symptoms vary, and swelling alone does not establish the diagnosis.

Take prescribed medicines as directed and do not stop them because swelling improves. Follow the fluid, salt, activity, and weight-monitoring plan given by your clinical team; these instructions need to be individualised. Record changes in swelling, breathing, energy, appetite, and weight if your team has asked you to do so. A Chronic Disease Review can provide a structured opportunity to check medicines, kidney function, blood pressure, rhythm, and symptom control.

Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness at rest, chest pressure, fainting, new confusion, blue or grey lips, or coughing up pink or frothy fluid. Contact your heart-care team promptly for rapidly worsening swelling, a marked change in breathing, new palpitations, or a sudden decline in exercise ability. Do not wait for a routine appointment when symptoms are escalating.

Ask what is driving the right-sided strain, which symptoms should prompt a call, and how you should monitor fluid or swelling. Ask how your medicines affect blood pressure, kidneys, and heart rhythm, and when your next review is needed.