Over time, almost all hypertensive patients develop a pathology of the heart muscle, which is characterized by an increase in its mass. Hypertrophy of the myocardium is not considered a very dangerous disease, since with proper control of pressure and compliance with the right way of life, there are no complications.
The causes and signs of myocardial hypertrophy of the left ventricle
Described functional state of the heart is provoked by the following factors:
- arterial hypertension;
- congenital or acquired heart disease;
- cardiomyopathy ;
- cardiomegaly;
- aortic defects;
- insufficiency of the mitral valve.
Symptoms of myocardial hypertrophy are manifested in three stages:
- compensation;
- subcompensation;
- decompensation.
In the first two stages, signs are almost non-existent, and occasionally weak angina is observed. During the period of decompensation, the following symptoms develop:
- weakness in the muscles;
- dry suffocating cough;
- drowsiness;
- dyspnea;
- increased heart rate (frequent);
- low heart rate;
- fast fatiguability;
- swelling in the face;
- a syndrome of cardiac asthma .
It should be noted that mild hypertrophy of the left ventricular myocardium can almost not be manifested and does not cause the patient any inconvenience. Such a disease is rarely diagnosed and, as a rule, accidentally, when performing a routine electrocardiogram. It is associated with increased physical exertion or age-related changes in the body.
Concentric hypertrophy of the left ventricular myocardium is considered a more dangerous condition that affects athletes. Because of intensive training, especially by playing (dynamic) sports, the heart muscle increases in size without widening the body cavity. In such situations it is recommended to gradually reduce the load in order to avoid the development of complications and the occurrence of concomitant heart diseases.
Treatment of myocardial hypertrophy of the left ventricle
The only tactic of therapy for today is the elimination of symptoms of pathology. It is recommended to take Verapamil in combination with suitable beta-blockers. These medications improve blood circulation, normalize heart rate and blood pressure.
In addition, cardiologists advise:
- Get rid of bad habits.
- Observe the diet with the exception of fatty and fried foods.
- Limit salt intake.
- It is useful to supplement the diet with sour-milk products, fresh fruits and vegetables, sea fish.