Pleural effusion is a relatively common condition in people with heart failure, especially left-sided heart failure, according to Dr. Than Thi Ngoc Lan from the Respiratory Department of Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi. This condition occurs when the left ventricle's ability to contract is reduced, causing the heart to weaken and become unable to pump the blood it receives from the lungs.

The primary mechanism causing pleural effusion due to heart failure is increased pressure in the pulmonary capillaries and pulmonary veins. This leads to fluid accumulation in the lung tissue, which then leaks into the pleural space. Heart failure-induced pleural effusion can occur in one or both lungs, with the right lung more commonly affected if it's unilateral.

Dr. Lan examines a patient's lungs. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Lan examines a patient's lungs. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Lan explained that if not detected and treated promptly, pleural effusion caused by heart failure can lead to serious complications, directly impacting respiratory function. The severity depends on the amount of fluid accumulated, the extent of heart failure, and the progression of the underlying disease. Some frequently occurring and rapidly progressing complications include:

Lung collapse: Fluid compresses the lung tissue, causing partial or complete collapse and significantly reducing oxygen exchange capacity.

Respiratory failure: When a large amount of fluid severely compresses the lungs, patients can experience acute respiratory failure, which is life-threatening.

Cardiac tamponade: In severe cases, the fluid can put pressure on the heart, reducing its pumping ability and posing a serious danger.

Patients with heart failure-induced pleural effusion often experience the following symptoms:

Shortness of breath during exertion or at rest: Shortness of breath is a normal physiological response to exercise. However, persistent shortness of breath, even at rest or during mild activity, can be a warning sign of lung or heart disease.

Chest pain: Patients may experience a dull ache or tightness in the chest, which worsens with deep breaths, loud talking, or forceful breathing.

Cough: A dry cough or a cough with slight phlegm may also occur, reflecting fluid accumulation in the lungs or pleural irritation.

Fatigue and loss of appetite: Because heart failure reduces the body's oxygen supply, patients often experience exhaustion and poor appetite.

Swelling: If pleural effusion is related to heart failure, patients often experience swelling in the legs, ankles, or throughout the body. The severity of the swelling varies depending on the severity of the heart failure.

Dr. Lan advises individuals with suspected pleural effusion or underlying heart conditions to seek specialized medical attention for effective intervention and to limit complications.

Minh Duc