What are common symptoms of congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to a backlog of fluid in the lungs and other areas of the body. The symptoms of CHF are directly related to the body's response to this inadequate circulation and fluid buildup.

The presence of shortness of breath is one of the hallmark symptoms of CHF, often occurring during exertion or while lying flat due to fluid accumulation in the lungs, known as pulmonary congestion. Swelling in the legs, or peripheral edema, results from fluid retention as the heart's pumping action diminishes, causing fluid to seep into surrounding tissues. Fatigue commonly accompanies these symptoms as the body's tissues do not receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, which can leave a person feeling unusually tired and weak.

These symptoms provide critical insight into the body's struggle to maintain adequate circulation and are significant indicators for healthcare providers assessing heart function and overall patient health. The combination of shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, and fatigue is therefore very characteristic of congestive heart failure, making this choice the most appropriate answer.