What is the mnemonic for the signs and symptoms of left-sided heart failure?

• A. Dyspnea, Orthopnea, Cough, Pulmonary congestion
• B. Dizziness, Overexertion, Cardiac pain, Peripheral edema
• C. Palpitations, Oliguria, Chills, Pleural effusion
• D. Cyanosis, Orthostatic hypotension, Chest pain, Peripheral cyanosis

Answer: (A)

The mnemonic for the signs and symptoms of left-sided heart failure is accurately represented by the choice that includes dyspnea, orthopnea, cough, and pulmonary congestion.

Left-sided heart failure primarily affects the lungs because the left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body. When the left side of the heart fails, blood backs up into the pulmonary circulation, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs. This causes classic symptoms such as dyspnea (shortness of breath), which can worsen when lying down (orthopnea). A cough, particularly a dry or wheezy one, may also occur due to this fluid buildup in the lungs, and pulmonary congestion is a direct manifestation of the pressure overload in the pulmonary circulation.

Recognizing these signs and symptoms is critical for early detection and management of left-sided heart failure, as they are central to understanding the impact of heart failure on pulmonary function. Other options provided do not directly align with the hallmark symptoms associated with left-sided heart failure, as they focus on different aspects or signs of other types of conditions.