How does the doctor diagnose heart failure?

- The diagnosis is usually based on the case history combined with an examination that will look for an increased heart rate, abnormal heart sounds, the presence of heart murmurs, swollen legs, fluid in the lungs, increased distension of neck veins and liver enlargement. - To determine the extent of the heart failure, a chest X-ray is done. To establish whether a previous heart attack may be associated with the development of heart failure, an electrocardiogram (ECG) will be taken.- Blood samples are usually taken to check for metabolic upset and kidney function.