What are the Symptoms of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy?
October 15, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a condition where the left ventricle of the heart, the main pumping chamber, becomes thickened and enlarged. It typically occurs in response to conditions that put extra pressure on the heart, such as high blood pressure or aortic valve stenosis. LVH often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages, but as it progresses, the following symptoms may become evident:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort:
- Angina-like pain or discomfort in the chest due to inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle, often occurring during physical exertion or stress.
- Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea):
- Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, especially during physical activity or when lying down flat (orthopnea).
- Fatigue and Weakness:
- A persistent feeling of tiredness or a lack of energy, which can interfere with daily activities.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness:
- Feeling light-headed, dizzy, or as if you may faint, especially when standing up quickly.
- Palpitations:
- Sensations of rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats (palpitations) that may be felt in the chest, neck, or throat.
- Fluttering in the Chest (Atrial Fibrillation):
- An irregular and often rapid heartbeat (arrhythmia) that may cause a fluttering sensation in the chest.
- Swelling (Edema):
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, or abdomen (edema) due to fluid retention, a result of the heart’s reduced pumping ability.
- Chest Pressure or Tightness:
- A feeling of pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest, which may be a sign of compromised blood flow.
- Increased Urge to Urinate at Night (Nocturia):
- Needing to urinate more frequently at night, possibly due to fluid buildup from heart-related issues.
- Difficulty Exercising:
- Trouble engaging in physical activities or a reduced ability to exercise due to the heart’s diminished capacity to pump blood effectively.
- Fainting (Syncope):
- Temporary loss of consciousness or fainting spells, which can occur due to irregular heart rhythms or inadequate blood supply to the brain.
It’s important to note that symptoms of LVH can mimic those of other heart conditions, and some individuals with LVH may remain asymptomatic. Regular check-ups, heart health assessments, and medical evaluations are crucial for individuals at risk or with known cardiac conditions. If you experience persistent or concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention for proper evaluation and management.