What is a potential complication of untreated right-sided heart failure?

Untreated right-sided heart failure can lead to various complications, and renal failure is one of the significant ones. In right-sided heart failure, the right ventricle is unable to effectively pump blood into the lungs for oxygenation. This leads to increased pressures in the venous system, particularly affecting the systemic circulation.

As blood flow becomes obstructed, it causes fluid to back up in the body's veins, resulting in peripheral edema and congestion in organs, including the kidneys. When the kidneys are subjected to prolonged hypoperfusion due to insufficient blood flow, they may struggle to carry out their functions effectively, leading to acute kidney injury or chronic renal failure over time.

Additionally, renal failure can further exacerbate heart failure, creating a vicious cycle of worsening symptoms and complications. Thus, patients with untreated right-sided heart failure are at a heightened risk of developing renal problems due to these pathophysiological processes.