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Right Heart Failure

Failure of the right heart chamber causes leg swelling, abdominal distension, and fatigue.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Right Heart Failure?

Right heart failure is a syndrome in which the right ventricle cannot pump enough blood into the pulmonary circulation, resulting in elevated systemic venous pressure.

The most common cause is left heart failure; increased pressures on the left side eventually strain the right heart. Additional causes include pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism, tricuspid valve disease, and chronic lung disease.

Elevated venous pressure leads to fluid accumulation in the legs, abdomen (ascites), and liver. Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause determine the clinical course.

Symptoms

Swelling of the legs and ankles (edema)
Abdominal enlargement and fullness (ascites)
Loss of appetite and nausea
Fatigue and exercise intolerance
Distended neck veins
Pain and tenderness in the liver area

Risk Factors

Left heart failure and coronary artery disease
Pulmonary hypertension
Chronic lung disease (COPD, pulmonary fibrosis)
Tricuspid valve disease
History of pulmonary embolism

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When rapid leg swelling or abdominal distension develops
  • When shortness of breath and abdominal distension occur together
  • If symptoms worsen in patients with known heart disease
  • If urine output drops sharply or jaundice develops

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of the underlying cause (pulmonary hypertension, left heart failure)
02
Diuretics to reduce fluid overload
03
Salt and fluid restriction
04
Pulmonary hypertension medications (endothelin antagonists, PDE5 inhibitors)
05
In advanced disease, consideration of right-heart support or lung transplantation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.