Hjärtförändringar

Hjärtförändringar refers to alterations in the structure or function of the heart. These changes can be physiological, occurring naturally over time or in response to exercise, or pathological, resulting from disease or injury. Physiological changes might include an increase in heart muscle mass in athletes or age-related stiffening of the heart valves. Pathological hjärtförändringar can manifest in various ways. For instance, myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, causes damage and scarring to the heart muscle. Valvular heart disease involves the malfunction of the heart valves, leading to either insufficient closure (regurgitation) or narrowing (stenosis), hindering proper blood flow. Cardiomyopathy is a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy, where the main pumping chamber of the heart thickens over time due to the increased workload. Congenital heart defects are structural problems present at birth that can alter blood flow through the heart. Symptoms associated with hjärtförändringar vary widely depending on the cause and severity, but can include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, and swelling in the legs and ankles. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and sometimes more advanced imaging techniques or blood tests. Treatment strategies are tailored to the specific type and cause of the hjärtförändringar and may involve lifestyle modifications, medications, or surgical interventions.