National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test

Which type of cough is typically associated with heart failure?

1. Dry cough

2. Productive cough with pink frothy sputum

3. Chronic cough

4. Whooping cough

The correct answer is: Productive cough with pink frothy sputum

In the context of heart failure, the type of cough most commonly observed is a productive cough with pink frothy sputum. This cough occurs as a result of pulmonary congestion, which can arise when the heart is unable to effectively pump blood, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs. The excess fluid can leak into the air sacs, causing patients to cough up sputum that is often tinged with blood, giving it a pink, frothy appearance. This symptom highlights the body's response to increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation, which is a common complication of heart failure. Recognizing this type of cough can be critical in assessing the severity of heart failure and the need for immediate medical intervention. In contrast, other types of coughs, such as a dry cough, chronic cough, or whooping cough, are associated with different clinical conditions and may not be directly indicative of heart failure. Understanding these distinct characteristics can aid in better diagnosis and management of patients with respiratory symptoms related to cardiovascular issues.