Left ventricular hypertrophy

Updated: 2024-08-06

Description

Thickening of the walls of the lower left heart chamber, called the left ventricle.

Overview

Left ventricular hypertrophy is thickening of the walls of the lower left heart chamber, called the left ventricle. In this condition, the heart wall becomes stiff. The changes make it harder for the heart to pump blood. The condition is often caused by high blood pressure.

Symptoms

Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats.

Treatments

Treatment can include medicines and surgery.