What is a common finding in patients with heart failure in older adults?

In patients with heart failure, particularly in older adults, the presence of edema in the lower extremities is a common finding. This occurs due to the heart's reduced ability to pump blood effectively, which leads to increased pressure in the blood vessels. Consequently, fluid can leak into surrounding tissues, causing swelling, particularly noticeable in the legs and feet. This peripheral edema is a hallmark symptom of heart failure and reflects the underlying pathophysiology related to fluid overload.

Other signs and symptoms in heart failure may include shortness of breath, fatigue, and weight gain due to fluid retention, but the edema is particularly characteristic of the condition. It is important to monitor for these signs as they can significantly affect the patient's quality of life and overall management of heart failure.