### What Causes Right-Side Heart Failure? Right-side heart failure occurs when the right ventricle of your heart loses its ability to pump blood effectively. This can be caused by several factors, including: - **Coronary artery disease**: Plaque buildup in the arteries can block blood flow to the heart muscle. - **High blood pressure**: Increased pressure makes the heart work harder, weakening it over time. - **Damaged heart valves**: Valves that don't function properly force the heart to work harder. - **Congenital heart defects**: Structural problems in the heart present from birth. - **Arrhythmia**: Irregular heartbeats can affect the heart's ability to pump blood. - **Lung disease**: Conditions like COPD can lead to right-side heart failure. - **Other long-term conditions**: Diabetes, HIV, and thyroid issues can contribute to heart failure. ### Symptoms of Right-Side Heart Failure Common symptoms include: - Swelling in the feet, legs, and ankles (edema) - Fatigue and weakness - Shortness of breath - Rapid or irregular heartbeat - Persistent coughing or wheezing ### Treatment Options While there's no cure for heart failure, treatments can help manage symptoms: - **Medications**: Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers can help. - **Lifestyle changes**: Reducing salt intake, exercising, and quitting smoking. - **Surgery or procedures**: In severe cases, procedures like valve repair or heart transplant may be necessary. ### Living with Heart Failure Managing heart failure involves regular check-ups and making lifestyle changes to reduce stress on the heart. Consult your doctor for a personalized treatment plan.