If a patient with congestive heart failure continues to eat a high-sodium diet, what is the likely effect on water retention?

If a patient with congestive heart failure continues to eat a high-sodium diet, what is the likely effect on water retention?

• A. Edema worsens
• B. Increased water retention
• C. Decreased urine output
• D. No change in body weight

Answer: (B)

High sodium intake increases extracellular fluid volume because water follows sodium. In congestive heart failure, reduced heart function lowers kidney perfusion, activating systems that conserve sodium and water. So a high-sodium diet leads to more water retention, which typically manifests as worsening edema and higher body weight. The direct effect being tested is increased water retention; edema may worsen as a consequence. Decreased urine output or no change in weight aren’t the primary direct effects of dietary sodium in this context.

High sodium intake increases extracellular fluid volume because water follows sodium. In congestive heart failure, reduced heart function lowers kidney perfusion, activating systems that conserve sodium and water. So a high-sodium diet leads to more water retention, which typically manifests as worsening edema and higher body weight. The direct effect being tested is increased water retention; edema may worsen as a consequence. Decreased urine output or no change in weight aren’t the primary direct effects of dietary sodium in this context.