What Is Diastolic Heart Failure?

Diastolic heart failure occurs when the left ventricle of the heart is unable to relax properly during the diastolic phase of the cardiac cycle. This condition is characterized by impaired active relaxation of the left ventricle or a decrease in the compliance of the heart muscle. As a result, the stiffness of the left ventricular wall increases due to factors such as myocardial cell hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis. This leads to a reduced cardiac output during diastole and elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, ultimately resulting in diastolic heart failure.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Diastolic heart failure is commonly seen in older patients with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and left ventricular hypertrophy. Additionally, some patients may also suffer from atrial fibrillation, which can further impair heart function. Any disease that reduces the left ventricle's ability to relax can increase ventricular stiffness and raise the risk of developing diastolic dysfunction.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing the Signs

Patients experiencing sudden fatigue, reduced exercise capacity, increased heart rate, shortness of breath during physical activity, or swelling in the lower extremities should seek medical evaluation. These symptoms may indicate the presence of diastolic heart dysfunction and warrant further diagnostic testing to confirm the condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan.