Signs & Symptoms of Right-Side Heart Problems

Often there are many warning signs before heart failure--defined by eMedicineHealth.com as the point when the tissues of the body are not receiving enough blood and oxygen to function. If you don't recognize these symptoms, it could lead to serious cardiovascular trouble that could have been averted if treatment already had been in place. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of right-side heart problems can help you stay healthy and clear of heart complications.

Weight Gain

• According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, long before you begin to experience serious pain or discomfort, your heart will let you know there are problems with a clear sign: weight gain. In fact, Merck says, you could start gaining as much as two pounds per day. Generally, weight gain precipitated by right-side heart problems occurs in the feet, ankles and lower legs. If it continues unchecked, it will eventually reach the abdominal area. This weight usually is from swelling because of accumulation of fluids in these areas.

Edema

• Edema is the term used to describe puffy swelling in the body. If you notice that your legs, ankles or feet are swollen, push a finger gently into the swollen area. If the finger leaves an imprint, this is called "pitting edema" and indicates a right-side heart problem--often congestive heart failure.

Respiratory Symptoms

• As the right side of the heart continues to struggle, your lungs might begin to fill up with the accumulating fluid that is causing the swelling in your legs and ankles. Difficulties breathing often accompany this stage. The right side of the heart can fail because the left side is struggling and has placed too much pressure on the right. In these cases, other parts of your body also might swell, and you might experience serious respiratory difficulties if you do not seek medical help.