“The term “congestive” heart failure refers to the fluid buildup in the lungs — that is, to lung congestion. Since this lung congestion occurs to some extent in the large majority of patients with heart failure, most people with heart failure can be said to have congestive heart failure. This is why “heart failure” and “congestive heart failure” are considered virtual synonyms by most doctors.”

Richard N. Fogoros, M.D. Updated November 15, 2011 STATED IN THIS DOCTOR’S ARTICLE ON CHF IN