Symptoms for right-sided heart failure include swelling (edema), especially in the lower portion of the body. Fluids are drawn to and accumulate in the lowest point in the body by the effects of gravity. When standing, swelling occurs in the feet, legs, ankles, and abdomen. When lying down, swelling may occur in the back and abdomen. If fluid accumulates in the stomach or liver, you may feel nauseous or lose your appetite. In extreme instances, the body cannot absorb food well, resulting in a condition called cardiac cachexia.
Symptoms for right sided heart failure are related to fluid buildup in the body:
- swelling in the feet and legs (edema) when standing
- swelling in the back when lying down
- nausea
- loss of appetite
Continue Learning about Heart Failure Symptoms
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