What does LVA mean in CARDIOLOGY

There are several potential causes for an LVA including prior heart attack, infection, and trauma to the chest. More common risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and obesity.

Some patients may not experience any symptoms but those that do may experience shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, or a feeling of light-headedness or dizziness. More severe cases may present with irregular heartbeat or palpitations.

An LVV typically will be diagnosed with imaging tests such as an echocardiogram (ultrasound), MRI, or CT scan. Your doctor may also request additional tests such as electrocardiograms to check for irregularities in your heart rhythm and blood tests to measure your cholesterol levels.

Treatment depends on the size and severity of your LVA. Smaller LVAs may only require lifestyle changes such as losing weight and controlling cholesterol levels through diet and exercise. If your condition has progressed or if you are experiencing symptoms from your LVA, then treatment options like medications or surgery may be recommended by your doctor.

Complications depend on how large your LVV is and whether you have any underlying conditions or risk factors that can contribute to its progression. Potential complications include heart failure, stroke, low blood pressure, arrhythmia's (irregular heartbeat), cardiac arrest (sudden death,)and even sudden cardiac death taking place outside of hospital due to severe blockages in coronary vessels secondary to LVV's formation over time leading to gradual narrowing of lumen due to plaque formation (coronary artery disease).