Which of the following is a sign of fluid retention in heart failure?

Which of the following is a sign of fluid retention in heart failure?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Pulmonary crackles
• C. Headache
• D. Abdominal pain

Answer: (B)

Fluid retention from heart failure most clearly shows up as pulmonary edema, where fluid backs up into the lungs. This fluid in the interstitial and alveolar spaces produces crackles heard on auscultation, especially at the lung bases. Pulmonary crackles are a classic sign of fluid overload because they directly reflect fluid accumulation in the lungs from increased hydrostatic pressure. Jaundice points more to liver problems or congestive hepatopathy in advanced cases, not the primary sign of overall fluid overload. Headache and abdominal pain are not typical indicators of fluid retention in heart failure.

Fluid retention from heart failure most clearly shows up as pulmonary edema, where fluid backs up into the lungs. This fluid in the interstitial and alveolar spaces produces crackles heard on auscultation, especially at the lung bases. Pulmonary crackles are a classic sign of fluid overload because they directly reflect fluid accumulation in the lungs from increased hydrostatic pressure.

Jaundice points more to liver problems or congestive hepatopathy in advanced cases, not the primary sign of overall fluid overload. Headache and abdominal pain are not typical indicators of fluid retention in heart failure.