What is the effect of diastolic dysfunction on the heart?

Diastolic dysfunction specifically refers to the heart's inability to fill properly with blood during the diastolic phase, which is when the heart muscle relaxes and allows blood to flow into its chambers. This impairment can result from various factors, including stiffness of the heart muscle, which can impede normal filling.

Consequently, because the heart cannot fill adequately, there is less blood available to be pumped out to the rest of the body during the subsequent contraction (systole). This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue, particularly during physical activity, as the body may not receive the oxygenated blood it needs. Understanding this dysfunction is crucial in diagnosing and managing heart conditions, especially in elderly patients or those with hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors.