What type of fluid imbalance may be a result of heart failure?

Heart failure often leads to hypervolemia, which is characterized by an excess of fluid in the body. In heart failure, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, leading to reduced cardiac output and subsequent fluid retention. This retention occurs primarily due to increased pressure in the blood vessels, causing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues. Additionally, the kidneys may respond to decreased blood flow by retaining sodium and water to maintain blood volume, exacerbating the condition.

Hypervolemia can result in symptoms such as swelling in the legs and ankles, pulmonary congestion, and elevated blood pressure. It is crucial to monitor fluid balance in heart failure patients to avoid complications associated with fluid overload. Thus, this understanding underscores the significance of managing fluid intake and utilizing diuretics when necessary in the clinical management of heart failure.