Which sign is commonly observed in a patient with congestive heart failure?

In patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), peripheral edema is a common sign due to the heart's decreased ability to pump blood effectively. This inefficiency leads to fluid accumulation in the body's tissues, particularly in the lower extremities, causing noticeable swelling or edema. This condition occurs because when the heart fails to pump blood effectively, it increases pressure in the veins, particularly those in the legs, leading to leakage of fluid into the surrounding tissues.

The presence of peripheral edema is significant because it serves as an indicator of fluid overload, which is a hallmark of congestive heart failure. In addition to peripheral edema, patients may exhibit other signs and symptoms as a result of the heart's inability to maintain adequate circulation, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and elevation in blood pressure. Overall, recognizing peripheral edema helps in the assessment and management of congestive heart failure.