I50.81

Clinical Causes: Chronic lung diseases such as emphysema or pulmonary fibrosis Left-sided heart failure, which increases pressure in the pulmonary circulation Pulmonary hypertension, leading to increased workload on the right ventricle Cor pulmonale, which is enlargement of the right ventricle due to lung disease Congenital heart defects affecting the right side of the heart Valvular heart diseases involving the tricuspid or pulmonary valves Right ventricular infarction or damage due to a heart attack Certain infections or cardiomyopathies that weaken heart muscle

Key Symptoms: Swelling in the legs and ankles (peripheral edema) Abdominal swelling or bloating (ascites) Fatigue and weakness Shortness of breath, especially during exertion or lying flat Rapid or irregular heartbeat Elevated neck veins (jugular venous distention) Weight gain from fluid retention Harsh cough or wheezing in some cases

Diagnosis Path: Medical history review and physical examination Imaging tests like echocardiogram to assess heart function Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal heart rhythms Chest X-ray to evaluate heart size and lung condition Blood tests to check for signs of heart failure or underlying causes Stress tests or cardiac MRI in certain cases Measurement of pressures inside the heart via right heart catheterization

Treatment Protocols: Medications such as diuretics to reduce fluid buildup Vasodilators to decrease blood pressure in the lungs and reduce the workload of the right ventricle ACE inhibitors or ARBs for managing underlying heart failure Oxygen therapy if respiratory issues are present Management of underlying causes like lung disease or pulmonary hypertension Lifestyle adjustments including salt restriction and activity recommendations In severe cases, surgical options like valve repair or replacement, or heart transplantation