What does LVH mean in MEDICAL

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an abnormal enlargement of the walls of the left ventricle, a chamber of the heart. When the left ventricle must work harder than normal to pump blood, it can become enlarged, leading to a condition called LVH.

LVH usually occurs when increased workload in the heart forces it to work harder than normal and causes its walls to thicken. This increase in wall thickness can be caused by high blood pressure or other diseases such as diabetes or congestive heart failure.

In most cases, there are no symptoms associated with LVH. However, some people may experience shortness of breath due to poor circulation or chest pain due to over exertion. Additionally, abnormal heart rhythms may occur due to impaired electrical conduction in the heart muscle.

Diagnostic tests for LVH include echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG), cardiac MRI or CT scan and chest X-ray. These tests measure changes in size and shape of the left ventricle, calculate ejection fraction and generate images that allows doctors to evaluate function and detect any abnormalities in blood flow or valve formation.

Treatment for LVH aims primarily at addressing lifestyle changes that could reduce strain on the heart such as quitting smoking, controlling diabetes, reducing alcohol intake and adopting a healthy diet regimen with physical activity. Additionally, medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers and diuretics may be prescribed by physicians depending upon individual cases. Surgery may also be recommended if needed.

Yes having LVH can be dangerous because it increases your risk of having a stroke or a heart attack due to weakened heart contraction ability resulting from thickened walls in your left ventricles caused by an increasing workload placed on them. Therefore it is important to seek medical attention if you have any signs or symptoms suggestive of this condition.

Yes you can take steps towards preventing this condition by following healthy lifestyle habits such as not smoking cigarettes; exercising regularly; consuming mostly natural foods like fruits & vegetables; keeping your cholesterol levels under control; managing stress; controlling your blood sugar levels if you have type 2 diabetes; limiting sodium intake etc.