What are the symptoms for right-sided heart failure?

Richard J. Shemin, MD on behalf of UCLA Health

Thoracic Surgery (Cardiothoracic Vascular)

Right-sided heart failure is when the right ventricular fails to have adequate contraction. Pressure builds up on the venous side of the circulation and cause leg swelling, fluid in the abdominal cavity (ascites) and failure of the right side of the heart to deliver blood to the left side of the heart.

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

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.

Piedmont Heart Institute

Right-sided heart failure refers to failure predominately of the right ventricle. This syndrome is characterized by excess fluid accumulation in the body. This is most notably characterized by swelling under the skin which is known as peripheral edema. This usually affects more dependent areas of the body such as feet and ankles and the lower extremities in general. Other areas that fluid may accumulate in include the abdominal cavity. This may include excess fluid within the central veins of the body including the inferior vena cava, liver and leg veins. At times, if the pressure in the veins is prolonged and severe, fluid accumulation within the abdominal cavity develops. This is referred to as ascites. Patients also may suffer from hepatomegaly. This refers to enlargement of the liver. This occurs due to venous congestion of the liver itself which causes swelling of the entire organ.

Joan Haizlip, MSN

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

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

Jennifer H. Haythe, MD on behalf of Columbia University Department of Surgery

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

The symptoms of right-sided heart failure include lower-extremity edema (swelling), abdominal bloating, nausea and fatigue.

Continue Learning about Heart Failure Symptoms

Jonathan P. Piccini, MD

Risk of sudden cardiac death increases following a heart attack. In fact, studies have shown that ri...

Richard J. Shemin, MD

Diastolic dysfunction is when the left ventricle is very thick or the cavity cannot relax to easily ...

Linda Martinez

Shortness of breath is a common symptom for both heart failure and severe lung disease. Severe lung ...

What Is Congestion in Congestive Heart Failure?

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Heart Failure Symptoms

Common symptoms of heart failure include cough, difficulty breathing, bluish discoloration (cyanosis) of the hands, feet and lips and fatigue and swelling in legs and feet. Discuss your concern regarding heart failure with your doctor, especially if you have one or more risk factors such as coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Learn More