I recently went in for my every two year, or as needed, echocardiogram. I was able to review the results about 48 hours after the test had been performed through the magic of MyChart.
Aside from the usual trace mitral regurgitation and mild aortic stenosis that appeared on the echocardiogram, a newer finding was listed and immediately caused me some concern.
Grade I Diastolic Dysfunction (abnormal relaxation pattern).
Instantly I was like, this is it! I’m leaving the earth plane! Especially since my cardiologist restarted me on Lasix on an as needed basis, because my ankles and feet were swelling up so bad, I could no longer feel my ankle bone or any defying veins on the tops of my feet.
I also feel that once you hit a certain milestone after a PPCM diagnosis, your heart health starts to deteriorate a bit. I’ve seen countless heart sisters pass away after reaching their 10-year heart anniversary, 15 years, and 20 years.
Next month, I’ll reach my 19-year heart anniversary, which is something (especially when I was first diagnosed) I never thought I’d see. I was convinced my husband would be burying me before I was 50.
So, to ease my mind and to lower my blood pressure a bit, I took a Xanax and did a deep dive into what a Grade I Diastolic Dysfunction is, and how to proceed heart health wise, moving forward.
What is Grade I Diastolic Dysfunction?
Diastolic dysfunction occurs when the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles) have difficulty relaxing and filling with blood. Grade I diastolic dysfunction, also known as an abnormal relaxation pattern, is considered the mildest form. This condition is usually detected through an echocardiogram, a test that employs sound waves to create images of the heart in order to assess its function.
What Causes Grade I Diastolic Dysfunction?
This condition frequently stems from aging or high blood pressure, but factors like diabetes, coronary artery disease, and obesity can also contribute. It’s characterized by the heart muscle’s reduced flexibility, which hinders effective filling during diastole (the relaxation phase).
Potential Complications to Consider
While Grade I diastolic dysfunction is usually non-severe at its initial stages, it’s pivotal to monitor and manage it effectively to preempt possible complications:
1. Progression to Higher Grades: Unattended, Grade I diastolic dysfunction might progress to more severe forms, such as Grade II or III. These advanced stages can result in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), where the heart pumps normally but is too stiff to fill properly.
2. Increased Heart Strain: As the heart struggles to fill properly, it might compensate by working harder, potentially leading to increased heart strain and higher risk of developing full-blown heart failure.
3. Impact on Daily Life: While many individuals with Grade I diastolic dysfunction remain asymptomatic, others may experience symptoms like mild shortness of breath or fatigue, especially when active.
Management and Prevention
Managing Grade I diastolic dysfunction primarily involves addressing underlying risk factors:
Lifestyle Modifications: Regular physical activity and a heart-healthy diet are crucial in maintaining optimal heart function.
Blood Pressure Control: Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range through medication and lifestyle changes reduces additional strain on the heart.
Routine Monitoring: Frequent check-ups and echocardiograms ensure that any progression is detected early and managed accordingly.
Conclusion
While Grade I diastolic dysfunction is typically mild, understanding its potential implications helps in staying informed and proactive about heart health. By working collaboratively with healthcare professionals and adopting heart-healthy habits, individuals can prevent complications and maintain a good quality of life. Remember, knowledge and early intervention are powerful allies when it comes to heart health!
I did receive a phone call about the echocardiogram results, and as of now, there is no major concern regarding this new finding. Once my cardiologist gets concerned, then I will too. Until then though, I’ll be living my best life and enjoying my family.
