What is Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH)?

Quick Facts

  • Left ventricular hypertrophy is when the wall of the left ventricle has thickened.
  • This can make it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently.
  • It may take time for symptoms of LVH to appear.
  • Treatment often focuses on the condition that caused LVH.

Left Ventricular Hypertrophy LVH banner

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a thickening of the wall of the heart’s main pumping chamber (the left ventricle). This can make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.

LVH usually develops when the heart works harder than normal. Common causes include high blood pressure or conditions such as aortic stenosis. Over time, the extra workload makes the heart muscle grow thicker.

Although this thickening may help the heart pump blood at first, it can also make the heart muscles stiff and less flexible. This can reduce healthy blood flow.

What are the symptoms of LVH?

LVH may not cause symptoms for many years. As the condition progresses, symptoms may appear.

Common symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Chest pain, especially during activity
  • Heart palpitations
  • Dizziness or fainting

Anyone with these symptoms should contact a healthcare professional to find the cause and discuss next steps.

What causes left ventricular hypertrophy?

LVH usually develops because the heart must work harder than normal.

Some common causes or risk factors include:

Treating these conditions early can help slow or prevent LVH from getting worse. Without treatment, LVH can increase the risk of serious problems, including heart failure, sudden cardiac arrest and .

How is LVH diagnosed?

LVH can develop slowly over time and may not cause symptoms at first, so it can be difficult to detect.

Healthcare professionals may find LVH during routine heart testing. An electrocardiogram (EKG) can help identify signs of LVH, and an echocardiogram can confirm or help diagnose it.

Cardiac MRI may also be used to diagnose LVH.

What are the treatment options for LVH?

LVH cannot always be reversed, but treatment can help improve heart function and slow or stop it from getting worse.

Treatment focuses on the condition making the heart work harder. Depending on the cause, options may include:

  • Medications to lower blood pressure or treat related conditions
  • Heart-healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating better and being physically active
  • Surgery to repair or replace a heart valve, if valve disease is the cause

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Last Reviewed: Jul 28, 2026