Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and other vasodilators are used in the early treatment of heart failure. They act to

a. cause loss of volume

b. increase arterial pressure and perfusion

c. cause pooling of the blood and decreased venous return to the heart

d. increase the release of aldosterone and improve fluid balance

Option c. cause pooling of the blood and decreased venous return to the heart

Explanation:

The ACE inhibitors increases the diameter of the blood vessels (vasodilation) that improves the flow of blood. This reduces the work load on the heart. At the time of heart failure, a substance called angiotensin is released. This angiotensin formation is blocked by the ACE inhibitors. Angiotensin is involved in narrowing the blood vessels.

The ACE cause pooling of the blood and decreased venous return to the heart. The ACE inhibitors causes vasodilation that allows decrease in blood pressure. So, there is no increase in arterial pressure, aldosterone and loss of volume. Thus, option C is correct.