The patient who experiences gradually increasing dyspnea, anxiety, and edema of the feet and ankles may be suffering from
A) CHF.
B) MI.
C) malignant hypertension.
D) angina pectoris.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

CHF usually has an insidious onset with the patient experiencing gradually increasing dyspnea. Cardiac and respiratory rates increase, and the patient becomes anxious. As the condition progresses, the neck veins distend and edema is noted in the ankles. When the right side of the heart fails, the liver and spleen enlarge and the peripheral edema is more prominent. Left-sided CHF causes increased pulmonary congestion and more pronounced respiratory difficulties (see Figure 10-21).

The Patient Who Experiences Gradually Increasing Dyspnea, Anxiety, and Edema