diastolic dysfunction left ventricle

[emb98]

I have CML and was treated with Gleevec for 4 years and achieved remission. I have for the past several months been experiencing sudden onset of weakness which last for hours, to days. My blood pressure which has remained under control for several years with atenolol has been running 145/105 and higher for the past three to four months. I have a feeling of fullness in my stomach, and I have sporatic episodes of mild coughing, this occurs maybe once a week. I have episodes of rapid heart rate and pvc's. My BCRABL is stable at 104 per 100,000. I realize I am no longer in remission and they will reintroduce the Gleevec when my counts reach 500. I fear that I have diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle, which is a side effect of the Gleevec. I saw my cariologist 2 years ago and he said I had some slight thickening but nothing to worry about. I am a 44 year old male, 5'9 200lbs (I know slightly over weight). I have told my PCP and my Hemotologist how I feel and they never seem concerned or worried and consider everything CML related. I feel that I am seriously ill. Is it a possiblity that this is what I have and my symptoms are not related to the CML?

[CCFHeartMD11]

Diastolic dysfunction basically means that the heart isn't able to relax as well as it should, so the left ventricle doesn't fill quite as easily as it otherwise normally would. By itself, this doesn't usually cause any symptoms, especially if the systolic function (ability of the left ventricle to pump blood forward) is preserved. With diastolic dysfunction, depending on the severity, the body is sensitive to volume overload and can sometimes result in fluid backup into the lungs, resulting in (usually acute onset) shortness of breath. This can be exacerbated by high blood pressure. From what you are describing that your cardiologist said, your diastolic function is probably only mildly abnormal, and is unlikely to be the explanation for your occasional cough. The weakness and fullness in your stomach are also unlikely to be related, but that is hard to know for sure without examining you and knowing your fluid status.

[joanincarolina]

I read your response and applied it to my diagnosis of severe cardiac microvascular dysfunction where my Cardiologists are seeing MVD patients with fluid retention problems and diastolic dysfunction.I am always pleased to read a physician's clear and concise explanation about a condition being seen more and more than in the past. Thank you.