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Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Reduced pumping capacity of the left heart chamber predisposes to breathlessness and heart failure.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Left Ventricular Dysfunction?

Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is a condition in which the heart's main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, cannot pump enough blood or cannot relax adequately during diastole. The ejection fraction (EF) falling below 50% is typically considered reduced LV function.

Coronary artery disease and prior myocardial infarction are among the most common causes. Hypertension, diabetes, cardiomyopathy, and valvular disease can also impair LV function.

It can follow an asymptomatic course or present with heart failure symptoms in advanced disease. Echocardiography is the cornerstone of diagnosis and follow-up.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath on exertion and when lying down
Swelling of the legs and ankles
Fatigue and limitation of daily activity
Palpitations and irregular heartbeat
Waking at night with sudden breathlessness
Dizziness and tendency to faint

Risk Factors

Prior heart attack
Hypertension and diabetes
Coronary artery disease
Cardiomyopathy
Chronic alcohol use and cardiotoxic medications

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Seek emergency care for sudden shortness of breath or inability to lie down
  • Worsening shortness of breath and edema in patients with known heart disease
  • If palpitations or fainting occur
  • For routine cardiology follow-up with echocardiography

Treatment Methods

01
Combination therapy with ACE inhibitors or ARBs, beta-blockers, and diuretics
02
SGLT2 inhibitors and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists
03
Treatment of underlying causes (coronary disease, valvular disorders)
04
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) and ICD in suitable patients
05
Cardiac rehabilitation, diet, and exercise program

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.