Right Sided Heart Failure

Expert Diagnosis & Advanced Heart Failure Care

Right-sided heart failure occurs when the right side of the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently to the lungs. As a result, blood backs up in the veins, causing fluid accumulation in different parts of the body such as the legs, abdomen, liver, and feet. It commonly develops due to left-sided heart failure, lung diseases, pulmonary hypertension, or heart valve disorders.

Early diagnosis and timely treatment are important to prevent complications and improve quality of life. Comprehensive heart failure management focuses on controlling symptoms, improving heart function, reducing fluid overload, and preventing disease progression.

Common Causes of Right-Sided Heart Failure

Right-sided heart failure may occur due to several underlying heart and lung conditions, including:

• Left-sided heart failure
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Chronic lung diseases (COPD, pulmonary fibrosis)
• Congenital heart disease
• Heart valve disorders
• Coronary artery disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Recurrent pulmonary embolism
• Severe sleep apnea

Symptoms of Right-Sided Heart Failure

Patients may experience symptoms caused by fluid buildup and reduced circulation, such as:

• Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet
• Abdominal swelling or bloating
• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid weight gain due to fluid retention
• Enlarged liver
• Distended neck veins
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Loss of appetite or nausea

Diagnostic Evaluation

A detailed cardiac assessment is essential for accurate diagnosis and severity evaluation.

Investigations May Include:

• ECG (Electrocardiogram)
• 2D Echocardiography
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac MRI or CT scan
• Blood investigations
• Pulmonary function tests
• Right heart catheterization
• Stress testing when required
  
  

Treatment Options for Right-Sided Heart Failure

1. Medical Management

Medications help reduce fluid overload, improve heart function, and control underlying conditions.

2. Lifestyle & Dietary Modification

Salt restriction, fluid management, weight monitoring, smoking cessation, and supervised physical activity are important parts of treatment.

3. Treatment of Underlying Cause

Managing lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, valve disease, or coronary artery disease helps improve heart function.

4. Advanced Heart Failure Therapies

In severe cases, advanced cardiac procedures, device therapy, or surgical intervention may be recommended.

5. Long-Term Monitoring & Follow-Up

Regular follow-up and cardiac evaluation help prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes.

Our Approach to Heart Failure Care

Comprehensive Cardiac Evaluation

Advanced diagnostic testing for accurate assessment of heart structure and function.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Individualised treatment based on severity, symptoms, and underlying cause.

Multidisciplinary Care

Coordinated care involving cardiologists, cardiac imaging specialists, and heart failure experts.

Preventive & Long-Term Care

Focused monitoring, rehabilitation, and lifestyle guidance to improve overall heart health and quality of life.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical evaluation if you experience:

• Sudden worsening breathlessness
• Severe swelling of legs or abdomen
• Chest pain
• Fainting episodes
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Difficulty breathing while lying down

Take the Next Step

Early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly improve symptoms and prevent complications of right-sided heart failure. Timely expert cardiac care helps patients lead a healthier and more active life.