bradycardia, lvh and hypertension

Im a 47 year old male, with a resting heat rate of 52-56 bpm. I exercise frequently ( 3 times a week-1hr soccer), good lipid profile and recently from an echo i was found to have mild lvh with an IVS of 12cm. At that time, my bp was high at 145/92. Previously, my bp fluctuated between 120-145/80-95. I have been on 50mg Cozaar everyday. My bp now averages 109-115/72-78. My treadmill stress test was normal. My resting ECG was abnormal.

My questions are: With a low heart rate, a suddenly reduced bp and and an existing lvh condition, would these pose a risk? Is there a specific condition that Im suffering from?

Thank you.

[Michael J. McWilliams, M.D.]

With a low heart rate, a suddenly reduced bp and and an existing lvh condition, would these pose a risk?

No.  If you aren't having symptoms of lightheadedness, the lower the blood pressure the better.  This isn't true necessarily for severe LVH, but yours is very minimal.  Some labs would call that the upper limit of normal.


Is there a specific condition that Im suffering from?

Hypertension is the most likely culprit.  Exercise can increase LV thickness, but the only way to know if that is the cause is to stop exercise.  It does not sound like there is any reason for you to stop exercising.  I can't say for sure if it is a syndrome without seeing the studies, but it is pretty unlikely.

Hope this helps.

[tickertock]

I was diagnosed with marginal/borderline lvh at the age of 36 in 2001, my IVS also measured 12mm=1.2cm, i had it checked again in 2005 this time it was 14mm and listed as mild lvh, once again I was told not to worry , my Bp is very controlled with atenolol , cozaar , and hctz. I will have it checked again next year to see if it has regressed , remained the same or progressed. I'm not a MD, but from having a similar problem as yourself , I would say once you keep your Bp in check you should have nothing to worry about.