Understanding Diastolic Dysfunction Heart Failure

Diastolic dysfunction is a condition where the heart's left ventricle becomes stiff and unable to relax properly, impeding its ability to fill with blood. Unlike systolic heart failure, where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, diastolic dysfunction primarily affects the heart’s ability to fill during the diastolic phase of the cardiac cycle.

This condition leads to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), meaning that despite the heart's ability to contract normally, its impaired relaxation results in inadequate blood filling and, consequently, less blood being pumped out to the body. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and ankles.

Diastolic dysfunction is often associated with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and aging. Over time, increased pressure in the left ventricle can lead to pulmonary congestion and heart failure. Diagnosis typically involves echocardiography to assess heart function. Treatment focuses on managing underlying conditions and alleviating symptoms, often through medications to reduce blood pressure, control heart rate, and improve fluid balance, thereby enhancing the heart's ability to relax and fill properly.