From this, a number of grades of diastolic function can be determined:
The heigh of the E wave now becomes dependent on the length of the cardiac cycle (variable) rather than a true measure of diastolic function.
GDF11 also causes an increase in expression of SERCA-2, an enzyme necessary for relaxation during diastolic functions.
In addition, hypertrophy of the walls of the heart can make diastolic function worse by impairing the ability of the heart to relax properly.
Eventually, diastolic function, or the heart's ability to relax between contractions may become impaired, further causing decline.
There is no decrease of the diastolic function of the left ventricle.
Calcium channel blockers may improve diastolic function in selected individuals.
This mechanism is also likely with pericarditis, where diastolic function is chastened.
Abnormalities of diastolic function, ranging from asymptomatic heart disease to overt heart failure, are common in hypertensive patients.
The pumping or systolic function of the ventricle may be normal but the diastolic function (the ability of the heart to fill with blood) is abnormal.