What are common symptoms of right-sided heart failure due to systemic congestion?

In the context of right-sided heart failure, systemic congestion occurs when the heart's right ventricle is unable to effectively pump blood to the lungs, leading to a backup of blood in the systemic circulation. This congestion commonly results in specific symptoms associated with fluid retention and increased pressure in the venous system.

The presence of weight gain indicates fluid retention, which is directly related to poor circulation and increased volume in the blood vessels. Dependent peripheral edema, which is swelling in the lower extremities like the legs and ankles, also occurs because gravity causes fluid to accumulate in these areas when the heart can't effectively pump blood. Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is another typical manifestation of systemic congestion as a result of right-sided heart failure.

These symptoms highlight the impact of compromised venous return and increased pressure in the venous system, characteristic of right-sided heart failure. The other choices describe symptoms that are either less specific to right-sided heart failure or instead relate to other conditions or types of heart failure. For example, chest pain and cough are more often associated with left-sided heart failure or respiratory issues, while shortness of breath and fatigue can result from multiple causes, not exclusively from right-sided heart issues. Rapid heartbeat and changes in