Answer to Question #121004 in Human Anatomy and Physiology for a

Question

Peripheral/generalised oedema occurs in right heart failure due to:

a) Increased pressure in the right ventricle which flows back into the vena cava and peripheral veins

b) Increased pressure in the left atrium which flows back into the veins and capillaries of the lungs

c) Movement of fluid into the alveoli

d) Decreased peripheral venous pressure

Answer 1

The answer is D.

This is because :

A reduction in venous return can lead to fluid accumulation in the extremities. A failure of the valves to support flow of blood in a single direction also contributes to pooling which is characteristic of dependent edema.