Which symptoms are typically associated with heart failure?

Shortness of breath and fatigue are hallmark symptoms of heart failure. In heart failure, the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently is compromised, which can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs (congestive heart failure), causing shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion or when lying flat. Fatigue occurs because the body's organs, muscles, and tissues may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood to function optimally, leading to a general sense of tiredness even during routine activities. The presence of these symptoms typically indicates the heart's decreased ability to manage the demands placed upon it.

The other options present symptoms that are not primary indicators of heart failure. Chest pain can be associated with a variety of cardiovascular conditions, but it is not a typical presentation for heart failure itself. Nausea and diarrhea can stem from gastrointestinal issues or other systemic conditions, while headache and dizziness can occur due to a range of factors unrelated to heart failure. Therefore, shortness of breath and fatigue stand out as the most relevant symptoms linked to heart failure.