Symptoms of COR PULMONALE

Early changes of chronic Cor Pulmonale may not produce symptoms. Later stages produce shortness of breath with exertion and frequent fainting. Swelling of the ankles, feet and distended neck veins, are due to right heart failure, where blood backs up in the veins. Also, heart failure can lead to discomfort of the right upper abdomen from swelling of the liver and generalized abdominal swelling. Chest pain may occur. Pallor of the skin may occur, or the skin may appear bluish. Rapid breathing may occur as well as rapid pulse. Acute Cor Pulmonale produces symptoms similar to above, except that develop rapidly, most commonly after a pulmonary embolism.