Question

Which of the following statements regarding heart failure is true?

1) Aortic stenosis is a major cause of congestive heart failure.
2) A frequent symptom of right-sided failure is dyspnea.
3) The average patient with congestive heart failure has a normal life span.
4) Compensated congestive heart failure may initially be clinically asymptomatic.

Answer 1

Heart failure is a condition where the heart cannot pump blood adequately. Aortic stenosis is a major cause of congestive heart failure, and compensated heart failure can be clinically asymptomatic initially.

Step-by-step explanation:

Heart Failure and its Characteristics

Heart failure is a condition where the heart cannot pump with sufficient force to transport oxygenated blood to all vital organs. Regarding the statements provided:

1. Aortic stenosis is a major cause of congestive heart failure, as it causes the heart to work harder to pump blood through a rigid valve.
   
2. Dyspnea is a frequent symptom of left-sided heart failure, not right-sided failure.
   
3. The statement that the average patient with congestive heart failure has a normal lifespan is not true. Heart failure can reduce life expectancy, especially if left untreated or poorly managed.
   
4. Compensated congestive heart failure may initially be clinically asymptomatic, meaning that the symptoms may not be evident.
   

Overall, statements 1 and 4 are true, while statements 2 and 3 are not.