Question:

I have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Why do I have a dilated left atrium?

I have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and had ICD implanted 2 years ago. Recently I had an echo which shows my LV is in better condition than 2 years ago, however, I found out that I have severe left atrial dilation. I should say that my blood pressure is always between 95-110. I do not have A-fib or heart failure. I will appreciate if you explain for me the cause of my LA dilation.

Submitted by Dana from Maryland on 10/20/2017

The left atrium is dilated most likely because the left ventricle is thickened and has lost some “elasticity”.