What is a potential consequence of right ventricular failure as indicated by increased JVD?

Increased jugular venous distention (JVD) is a key clinical sign associated with right ventricular failure. This condition arises when the right ventricle is unable to pump blood effectively into the pulmonary circulation, leading to a backlog of blood in the venous system. As the right ventricle struggles to manage the returning blood volume from the body, pressure builds up in the systemic venous circulation, causing distention of the jugular veins.

This systemic venous congestion can manifest as elevated JVD, indicating that the blood is not being efficiently returned to the heart. In cases of right ventricular failure, other symptoms such as peripheral edema, ascites, and hepatomegaly can also occur due to the increased venous pressure and fluid accumulation.

While pulmonary congestion typically relates to left-sided heart failure and would not be a direct consequence of right ventricular failure, systemic venous congestion distinctly highlights the clinical implications of right ventricular dysfunction, making it the most relevant consequence in this context.