In a patient with hypothyroidism, which clinical manifestation would be indicative of right-sided heart failure?
Explanation
• The fact that the patient has hypothyroidism is a "red-herring"- that is, an extra detail that is unnecessary and has no bearing on a question about left vs right-sided heart failure. Do not let details like these throw you off
• Signs and symptoms of right-sided heart failure include peripheral edema, ascites, jugular vein distention, and hepatomegaly
• These symptoms are caused by a diminished ability of the right ventricle to pump blood, allowing it to back up into the vena cava. This causes blood to pool in the extremities, abdomen, neck, and liver
• Incorrect: Left-sided symptoms are caused by a diminished ability of the left ventricle to pump blood into the aorta and systemic circulation. This leads to backup in the pulmonary circulation, causing pulmonary edema. Dry cough, crackles, and