What is the most common phrase to describe symptoms of congestive heart failure?

The most common phrase to describe symptoms of congestive heart failure includes shortness of breath, pedal edema, and orthopnea. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body.

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is a hallmark symptom as fluid accumulates in the lungs (pulmonary congestion), making it difficult for patients to breathe, especially during exertion or while lying down. Orthopnea refers specifically to the difficulty in breathing while lying flat, which often requires patients to sleep propped up. Pedal edema, the swelling of the lower extremities, occurs due to fluid retention as the heart fails to maintain sufficient circulation.

These symptoms collectively reflect the essence of heart failure, indicating both the pulmonary and systemic congestion resulting from inadequate cardiac output.