ventricular hypertrophy

Ventricular hypertrophy is a condition where the heart's ventricles increase in mass. This often occurs in response to long-term stress, such as hypertension or other forms of heart disease.1

When the heart faces increased pressure, its muscle cells can enlarge to generate more force. This process, known as hypertrophy, helps the heart meet the increased demand for pumping blood. However, this thickening can also lead to increased stiffness in the ventricle, which can impair its ability to fill properly. This can result in a backup of blood and fluid, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, particularly during exertion.2

While hypertrophy can be a compensatory mechanism, it is often associated with ventricular dysfunction and can contribute to conditions like congestive heart failure.2