What does congestive heart failure refer to?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) refers specifically to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively, which can lead to a buildup of fluid in the lungs and other tissues. This condition occurs when the heart's muscle is weakened or damaged, meaning it cannot fill with or pump out enough blood. As a result, the body does not receive adequate oxygen or nutrients, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs, ankles, and abdomen.

The other options highlight symptoms or conditions associated with heart health but do not accurately define congestive heart failure. For instance, an increased heart rate can occur for various reasons but is not a defining characteristic of CHF. Excessive blood pressure, while a risk factor, is not synonymous with the heart's failure to pump effectively. Cardiac arrest refers to a sudden loss of heart function, which is a more immediate and acute condition rather than the chronic nature of congestive heart failure. Understanding CHF's role in the broader context of cardiovascular health is crucial in recognizing its symptoms and implications for treatment and management.