It interferes slightly with the hearts most important job: getting oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.
Grade 1 is mild.
This article discusses grade 1 diastolic dysfunction.
Illustration by Jessica Olah for Verywell Health
Illustration by Jessica Olah for Verywell Health
What Is Diastolic Dysfunction?
When the left ventricle of the heart is stiff (restrictivecardiomyopathy), it cannot fill up completely.
Feelingshort of breathis the main symptom of diastolic dysfunction.
They can cause sudden and severe respiratory distress.
Treatment for diastolic dysfunction includes diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes.
These steps can help to prevent or slow progression to a higher grade that requires medication and surgeries.
During the systole phase, both ventricles contract, or squeeze.
The left ventricle pushes blood into the arteries and out to the body.
The right ventricle pumps blood into the lungs to pick up oxygen.
Causes and Risk Factors
Age is the number one risk factor for developing grade 1 diastolic dysfunction.
It is common, and fit and healthy people over 60 years of age can develop this condition.
However, keep in mind that BMI is a dated, flawed measure.
It does not take into account factors such asbody composition, ethnicity, sex, race, and age.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is measured by two numbers.
Nicotine damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen levels in the heart, making it work faster and harder.
Similarly, refined grains and starches act like sugar in the body, with the same effects.
Grade 1 Diastolic Dysfunction
Healthcare providers assign a grade level when treating diastolic dysfunction.
The grade indicates how severe the condition is.
People with Grade 1 diastolic dysfunction have evidence of abnormal diastolic function and may or may not have symptoms.
What Is the Ejection Fraction?
Ejection fractiondescribes the percentage of blood pumped out by a ventricle with each heartbeat.
Grade 1 diastolic dysfunction is referred to as impaired relaxation.
Clinicians monitor diastolic dysfunction and its progression by reviewing both symptoms and clinical findings.
AnX-rayor computed tomography (CT scan) can reveal fluid buildup in the chest or an enlarged heart.
It is important to not self-diagnose.
Some of these symptoms can be triggered by other conditions, including temporary states like dehydration.
Only a healthcare provider can make a definitive diagnosis.
Other Grades of Diastolic Function
As diastolic dysfunction progresses, it is diagnosed in more advanced grades.
It uses sound waves, or ultrasound, to capture images of your heart.
Surgery also is an option for advanced cases of diastolic dysfunction.
Some people don’t experience symptoms, while others may have shortness of breath.
The symptoms and their severity can worsen if diastolic dysfunction progresses into other stages.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about symptoms.
Lifestyle changes are often recommended.
These include quitting smoking, reducing dietary fat, and getting more exercise and quality sleep.
When lifestyle interventions are not enough, medication or even surgery may be needed.
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