Vänsterkammarsvikt

Vänsterkammarsvikt, also known as left ventricular failure, is a condition where the left ventricle of the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to the rest of the body. The left ventricle is the main pumping chamber of the heart, responsible for sending oxygenated blood from the lungs to the systemic circulation. When it fails, blood can back up into the lungs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and fluid accumulation.

This condition is often a consequence of other underlying heart problems. Common causes include coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attacks that damage the heart muscle, and hypertension (high blood pressure), which forces the left ventricle to work harder over time, eventually weakening it. Other contributing factors can be valvular heart disease, particularly problems with the aortic or mitral valves, and cardiomyopathies, which are diseases of the heart muscle itself.

Symptoms of vänsterkammarsvikt can develop gradually or appear suddenly. Early signs often include fatigue, weakness, and difficulty breathing, especially during exertion or when lying down. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience persistent cough, swelling in the legs and ankles (edema), rapid or irregular heartbeat, and a reduced ability to exercise. In severe cases, it can lead to pulmonary edema, a life-threatening condition where fluid fills the lungs. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), and sometimes other imaging tests. Treatment aims to manage the underlying cause, improve the heart's pumping function, and relieve symptoms through medication, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.