Which of the following is most commonly associated with right ventricular heart failure?

Right ventricular heart failure is often associated with specific clinical signs due to the unique role of the right ventricle in pulmonary circulation and systemic venous return. Swelling in the peripheral regions, such as hands and fingers, is a common manifestation of fluid overload and decreased cardiac output associated with this condition. This occurs because the right ventricle is unable to effectively pump blood into the pulmonary circulation, leading to a backup of blood in the systemic venous system. As a result, excess fluid can accumulate in peripheral tissues, causing swelling or edema.

In contrast, symptoms like severe headaches, severe chest pain, and increased urinary output are less characteristic of right ventricular heart failure. Severe headaches are often linked to conditions affecting cerebral circulation, while severe chest pain typically indicates ischemic heart disease or other cardiac issues rather than right ventricular failure. Increased urinary output may occur with improved kidney perfusion, particularly in cases of fluid overload resolving, but it is not a primary sign of right ventricular heart failure itself. Thus, swollen hands and fingers serve as a direct indicator of the fluid retention and venous congestion associated with right ventricular heart failure.