What is a common sign of right-sided heart failure?

The presence of peripheral edema is a hallmark sign of right-sided heart failure. This condition occurs when the right ventricle is unable to effectively pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation. As a result, blood backs up into the systemic circulation, leading to increased pressure in the veins. This pressure can cause fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, particularly in areas such as the lower extremities and abdomen, resulting in swelling known as peripheral edema.

In contrast, pulmonary edema primarily relates to left-sided heart failure, where fluid accumulates in the lungs due to left ventricle dysfunction. Chest tightness may occur in various cardiac conditions, but it is not a definitive sign of right-sided heart failure. Bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate, does not specifically indicate right-sided heart failure and can be associated with a range of different cardiac issues. Hence, the correct indication of right-sided heart failure is indeed the development of peripheral edema.