Which symptom is associated with left-sided CHF?

Prepare for the Mark Klimek Blue Book Part 1 Exam. Study with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and comprehensive explanations. Get ready for your nursing exam!

In left-sided congestive heart failure (CHF), the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, leading to a buildup of fluid in the lungs and decreased oxygenation of the body's tissues. A prominent symptom associated with this condition is increased fatigue. This fatigue arises because the heart struggles to supply adequate blood flow to meet the body's demands, which can leave individuals feeling tired and weak, particularly during physical activity.

Other signs and symptoms more typically associated with right-sided CHF include leg swelling, jugular venous distention, and hepatomegaly, which are indicative of fluid retention and congestion in the peripheral tissues and abdominal organs. However, in left-sided CHF, the primary impact is on the lungs and the subsequent systemic effects, which prominently include heightened fatigue as the body tries to compensate for inadequate perfusion. Therefore, increased fatigue is a clear and significant symptom associated with left-sided CHF.

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