If high blood pressure is left untreated for a long time, it may cause left ventricular hypertrophy, which affects the heart’s function and can lead to several serious complications. Normally, when referring to left ventricular hypertrophy, it means the thickening of the left ventricular heart muscle, which is responsible for pumping blood to various parts of the body.
Causes of Heart Muscle Condition
More than 90% of cases of left ventricular hypertrophy are caused by high blood pressure, which increases pressure in the arteries. The left ventricular heart muscle works harder and thickens. Oxygenated blood from the lungs and left atrium cannot flow properly into the left ventricle, resulting in an enlarged heart and eventually heart failure.
Symptoms of Heart Muscle Condition
Left ventricular hypertrophy does not always show abnormal symptoms. However, if symptoms occur, they are usually due to the underlying disease or complications, such as headache, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, or unusual fatigue.
Diagnosis of Heart Muscle Condition
Doctors can diagnose this condition by taking a detailed medical history and performing a thorough physical examination, especially focusing on the cardiovascular system, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).
Treatment of Heart Muscle Condition
Treatment of left ventricular hypertrophy depends on the underlying cause. For example, if caused by high blood pressure, treatment involves controlling salt intake and using antihypertensive medications. Continuous medication and regular blood pressure monitoring are necessary to keep blood pressure within the normal range and reduce long-term complications. Normal blood pressure values are systolic not exceeding 120 mmHg and diastolic not exceeding 80 mmHg. Blood pressure readings with systolic over 140 mmHg or diastolic over 90 mmHg are considered high blood pressure.
Treatment of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Treatment may not reduce the thickened heart muscle to normal but aims to prevent further thickening. If left untreated, it signals declining heart function, leading to end-stage heart disease and potentially death.
To stay safe from left ventricular hypertrophy, blood pressure must be maintained within normal limits, along with controlling other risk factors such as quitting smoking, managing diabetes, and keeping blood lipid levels within normal ranges.
Dr. Chayut Cheewapruk
Dr. Waranuch Junphuengprakiet
Cardiovascular Specialists
Heart Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
