April 23, 2025
Your heart is a highly efficient pump that works to deliver oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. But what happens if you experience heart failure? This condition can occur in multiple areas of the heart and presents different symptoms. At Cardiovascular Institute of the South, we are committed to helping you understand the differences between left vs. right side heart failure so you can take proactive steps toward better heart health.
Having the right information could be lifesaving, whether it’s recognizing early warning signs or knowing what questions to ask your healthcare provider. Explore their differences, causes, risk factors, and available treatments to help you take control of your heart health.
Left side heart failure occurs when the heart’s left ventricle struggles to pump blood effectively to the rest of the body. This is the most common type of heart failure and significantly affects how oxygenated blood circulates.
If you have left side heart failure, you might experience symptoms such as:
Left side heart failure is often linked to conditions that overwork or damage the heart, including:
Right side heart failure occurs when the right ventricle cannot pump blood effectively to the lungs, where it’s replenished with oxygen. This form of heart failure usually develops as a result of left side heart failure, but it can also have independent causes.
Unlike left side heart failure, right side heart failure typically results in symptoms involving fluid retention, such as:
Right side heart failure can have various triggers, which may include:
Certain factors increase your risk for both left and right side heart failure, including:
If you are worried that your risk factors could lead to left vs. right side heart failure, our experts can help you determine what preventative measures or treatment options to pursue. While heart failure is a serious condition, many effective treatments can ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
Your treatment plan will depend on the precise cause and severity of your condition, but these options are often considered:
Prompt treatment and a multidisciplinary approach can help you live a full and active life despite a heart failure diagnosis.
Our experts use advanced tools, such as chest X-rays, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, stress tests, MRIs, CT scans, and coronary angiograms, to accurately diagnose heart failure and understand its severity.
While heart failure is usually a chronic condition, its progression can often be managed or slowed. Lifestyle changes, medication, and specific treatments may improve symptoms.
Fluid retention is more closely associated with right side heart failure. However, left side heart failure can lead to fluid in the lungs, causing breathing issues.
Yes, it’s possible for both sides of the heart to fail, a condition known as biventricular heart failure. When this happens, it can result in a combination of symptoms from both right and left side heart failure, such as fluid buildup and difficulty breathing.
Heart failure is typically classified into four stages:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, treating pre-existing conditions, and seeing a cardiologist for regular check-ups can significantly reduce your risk.
Taking charge of your cardiovascular health starts with knowledge and action. The experts at Cardiovascular Institute of the South excel in diagnosing and treating conditions like left and right side heart failure. With advanced techniques, a focus on patient wellness, and a commitment to personalized care, our team supports you at every step of your healthcare journey.
If you’re concerned about your heart health or want preventative care for left vs. right side heart failure, request an appointment at Cardiovascular Institute of the South today. You can also reach out to your nearest clinic location. Take the first step today to protect your heart.