Which symptom is associated with right-sided heart failure?

In the context of right-sided heart failure, hepatomegaly is a significant symptom due to the congestion that occurs when the right side of the heart is unable to effectively pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation. As blood backs up in the systemic circulation, it can lead to increased pressure in the liver, causing it to enlarge, which is known as hepatomegaly. This symptom is often accompanied by other signs of fluid retention and congestion, such as ascites and peripheral edema, further indicating the systemic effects of right-sided heart failure.

The other symptoms listed may be associated with heart failure in general but are more characteristic of left-sided heart failure or other conditions. For example, orthopnea typically relates to left-sided heart failure due to fluid accumulation in the lungs when lying down. Dyspnea on exertion can occur in both types of heart failure but is more commonly linked with left-sided heart dysfunction due to pulmonary congestion. Palpitations may arise from a variety of causes and are not exclusive to right-sided heart failure. Hence, hepatomegaly is a direct consequence of right-sided heart failure and illuminates how systemic congestion affects organ function.