Cardiac Medicine Certification (CMC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common sign of heart failure?

1. Hypertension

2. Palpitations only

3. Shortness of breath (SOB)

4. Increased appetite

The correct answer is: Shortness of breath (SOB)

Shortness of breath (SOB) is a hallmark symptom of heart failure, stemming from the heart's reduced ability to pump blood effectively. As the heart struggles to meet the body's demand for oxygen, fluid can build up in the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing, especially during exertion or when lying down. This symptom is often one of the earliest indicators of heart failure and can significantly impact the quality of life for affected individuals. In contrast, while hypertension can be associated with heart conditions, it is not specific to heart failure and can occur independent of it. Palpitations might be present in various cardiac conditions but are not a common defining sign of heart failure. Increased appetite is typically not associated with heart failure, as the condition often leads to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea due to fluid overload and congestion. Overall, the prominence of shortness of breath in heart failure underscores the significance of recognizing respiratory symptoms as key indicators in the management and diagnosis of this condition.