A person with heart failure

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should. Blood often backs up and causes fluid to build up in the lungs and in the legs. The fluid buildup can cause shortness of breath and swelling of the legs and feet. Poor blood flow may cause the skin to appear blue or gray. Depending on your skin color, these color changes may be harder or easier to see. Some types of heart failure can lead to an enlarged heart.

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