Left ventricular failure Symptoms | Medical PG Preparations

Which of the following physical signs and symptoms is best indicative of left ventricular failure?
A. Neck vein distention 
B. Ascites
C. Anorexia 
D. Orthopnea

Ans. D. Orthopnea

Orthopnea is in­dicative of left ventricular failure. Orthopnea is defined as dyspnea i.e., the feeling of breathlessness that occurs in the recumbent position. Recumbency leads to increased car­diac venous return and, thus, increased left and right ventricular volumes. The increased left ventricular volume results in increased left ventricular filling pressure, which leads to pul­monary congestion and the feeling of breath­lessness. Neck vein distention, ascites, anorexia, and cardiac edema all are signs and symptoms of right ventricular failure.