Study of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in primary hypertension-evaluation by Doppler echocardiography at aims rural hospital

Background: There is growing recognition that congestive heart failure caused by a Predominant abnormality in diastolic function is both common and causes significant morbidity and mortality. Hence we aimed to evaluate the application of Doppler echocardiography in determining left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in primary hypertension. Objectives: 1) To evaluate Doppler echocardiography in determining left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) in essential hypertension. 2) To evaluate left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in essential hypertension. 3) To find out early left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in essential hypertension. Methodology: Present study is based on analysis of 75 patients of hypertension admitted to Adichunchanagiri Hospital and research centre from November 2012 to September 2014. Detailed history and physical examination was done. Every patient was subjected to ECG, CXR, routine investigations and Doppler Echo cardiography. Results: A total of 75 patients were studied. 37 patients showed diastolic dysfunction with E/A ratio <1, with increased atrial filling fraction. Out of 37 patients, 24 showed LVH and 13 cases did not had LVH. Conclusion: Study suggests that, in the early stages of hypertensive heart disease, before there is a detectable increase in left ventricular chamber size. Duration of hypertension and diastolic hypertension are also important determinants of abnormal diastolic function.