What is a primary characteristic of congestive heart failure (CHF)?

A primary characteristic of congestive heart failure (CHF) is the heart's inability to pump efficiently. In CHF, the heart's function is compromised, which can result from various underlying conditions, such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or prior heart attacks. This inefficient pumping leads to a reduced ability to meet the body's metabolic demands, causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention.

The other options describe conditions or states that are not directly characteristic of CHF. For instance, while increased heart rate at rest can occur in some patients with CHF, it is not a defining characteristic of the condition itself. Enlarged coronary arteries are more associated with coronary artery disease rather than CHF. High blood sugar levels, typically related to diabetes, do not directly relate to the heart's function or its ability to pump efficiently, although they can contribute to cardiovascular complications over time. Understanding that the hallmark of CHF lies in the heart's impaired pumping action is crucial for recognizing and managing this condition effectively.