Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about all what your mom has been through and this recent difficulties in breathing. I know it must be so distressing for the entire family but facing the challenge is the best thing to do. Pneumonia and congestive heart failure can initially present in the same way both on examining the lungs and looking at the chest x-ray. The best way is to use the clinical signs like fever which is more indicative of pneumonia than heart failure. Given her history of chemotherapy, most of these drugs are toxic to the heart and can predispose her to heart failure. Whatever the real problem is, a good clinical exam and possibly some investigations would give the definite answer to this. Work with her doctors and identify the exact problem so that a well suited plan is established for her. I wish herwell and thank you for using our services. Feel free to ask for more information if need be. Dr, Ditah, MD