Which symptom is a typical indication of congestive heart failure (CHF)?

A productive cough is a typical indication of congestive heart failure (CHF) because it is a symptom that arises from the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, a condition known as pulmonary edema. When the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, it can lead to a backup of blood in the pulmonary circulation, causing increased pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs. This results in fluid leakage into the lung tissue, which irritates the airways and triggers a cough that may produce sputum.

This symptom is particularly significant in CHF because it distinguishes it from other conditions that might not lead to such respiratory symptoms. The productive cough can often present as a wet or phlegmy cough, sometimes with pink, frothy sputum in more severe cases, reflecting the severity of fluid accumulation in the lungs.

The other symptoms listed are less directly associated with the primary pathophysiological changes seen in CHF. Frequent urination can occur due to the body's attempt to rid itself of extra fluid but is not a primary symptom. Severe headache and nausea can accompany a variety of conditions and are not specific to CHF. Thus, the productive cough serves as a key clinical indicator for recognizing congestive heart failure.