The heart is responsible for pumping oxygen rich blood throughout the body to organs and tissues. When this function of the heart is compromised, it is called heart failure. Several factors can increase the risk for developing heart failure. These include a history of a heart attack, high blood pressure, heart defects, and diseases that obstruct the coronary arteries. Heart failure is evident in a patient through signs such as congestion, liver and lymphatic blockage and abnormal heart sounds.
Pulmonary Edema
Early signs of congestive heart failure are commonly seen in the lungs, in the form of pulmonary edema. This condition develops due to the fluid build up in the lungs. In heart failure, when the heart is unable to contract and pump blood, there is a back flow of blood into the lungs. Especially seen at night, when the patient is a horizontal position, this affects breathing. Dyspnea is a condition that develops due to the congestion in the lungs. The patient experiences shortness of breath and has problems breathing.
Liver Enlargement
The fluid build up in the lungs causes back flow obstruction through the central veins, into the liver. This increases the size of the liver, a condition known as hepatomegaly. The liver is responsible for detoxifying drugs and chemicals within the body, so a build up of toxic substances can develop. The patient experiences severe pain, pale skin, and a yellowness in the eyes.
Abnormal Heart Sounds
Abnormal heart sounds are early signs of congestive heart failure. These abnormal heart sounds are known as S3 and S4, and can only be heard by a physician conducting a routine physical exam. Due to the increased volume caused by the fluid build up, an S3 heart sound can develop. This abnormal sound is heard more clearly when the patient is told to take a deep breath by the physician. An S4 heart sound can also develop due to increased pressure that results from the large blood volume hitting the walls of the heart.
