Arizona Certified Caregiver Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of heart failure?

1. Shortness of breath

2. Frequent hunger pains

3. Excessive sleepiness

4. Consistent weight gain

The correct answer is: Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is a hallmark symptom of heart failure, often resulting from the heart's diminished ability to pump blood effectively. In heart failure, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, leading to pulmonary congestion, which causes this sensation. Individuals may experience shortness of breath during physical activity or even at rest, particularly when lying down, which can be a troubling and obvious sign that the heart is not functioning properly. While frequent hunger pains, excessive sleepiness, and consistent weight gain can be associated with various health issues, they are not specific or common symptoms of heart failure. Frequent hunger pains may relate to metabolic or digestive processes, excessive sleepiness can stem from a wide range of conditions including depression or sleep disorders, and consistent weight gain might suggest other health concerns but does not directly indicate heart failure. Understanding that shortness of breath is a direct consequence of heart workload can help caregivers identify heart failure in patients more effectively.