Diastolic heart failure is when there is a decrease in the efficiency of one, or both, heart ventricles during the heart is not contracting to pump blood. If you know what the risk factors and symptoms of diastolic heart failure are then you may be able to stop the condition before it gets severe. Having the peace of mind to realize that you may be at risk for this disease and taking the proper steps to get checked out can mean the difference between living a normal life and living a life in fear that your heart is going to stop functioning.
There are several risk factors that can help to cause diastolic heart failure. A major factor is high blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause the walls of the heart to become stiff in some cases. When this happens the heart has a harder time pumping blood to the rest of the body. This, in turn, puts more strain and pressure on the heart to perform. Scarred heart muscle can also cause diastolic heart failure. Chances are, however, that if you have scar tissue on your heart you have probably had a heart attack in the past. Heart attacks will permanently scar the heart which can lead to the onset of diastolic heart failure.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes than the risk of having diastolic heart failure is greatly increased. Diabetes can slowly wear on your heart to the point where it can not perform its duties as well as it is supposed to. The good news is that if you have diabetes your doctor should know that you are at a high risk for diastolic heart failure. With this in mind, you can be checked and monitored periodically in an effort to intervene before the problem gets too bad. Lifestyle factors such as your diet and stress can also but unnecessary strain on the heart. Over time, these factors will take a major toll on your heart and stop it from functioning efficiently. If you are overweight or have a high stress job than it would be a prudent idea to check with a doctor regarding your heart health.
Diastolic heart failure can affect anyone regardless of age. Though this condition is more common in older people, young people with a high risk are also very susceptible. Making sure you know what the risk factors are and taking time to discuss them with your doctor will allow you to avoid having your life changed by this condition.
