❌ Myth: "Lungs are clear — can't be fluid overload"

✅ Reality: In chronic HF, lungs can be clear even with severe congestion

Why? Lymphatic compensation. Over time, the lymphatic system adapts to drain excess fluid.

A patient can have 10+ lbs of excess fluid with clear breath sounds.

Rales are a LATE finding. By the time you hear crackles, it's already a crisis.

Trust the scale more than the stethoscope.