Backup of blood behind a weakened heart results in JVD, edema in the extremities, chest pain.

• A. Meningitis
• B. Asthma
• C. Congestive Heart Failure
• D. Pneumonia

Answer: (C)

When the heart’s pumping is weakened, blood backs up in the venous system. That increased venous pressure shows up as jugular venous distention and fluid leaks into tissues, causing edema in the extremities. The heart’s strain and possible accompanying coronary issues can also produce chest pain. So the pattern described—bloodBACKUP with JVD, peripheral edema, and chest discomfort—fits congestive heart failure best.

The other conditions don’t typically cause this combination. Meningitis centers on infection with fever and neck stiffness rather than venous congestion or leg edema. Asthma involves airway narrowing with wheezing and shortness of breath, not edema from venous backup. Pneumonia presents with infection signs like fever and cough, and while chest pain can occur, edema and JVD due to heart failure aren’t characteristic.