What heart sound is associated with left ventricular hypertrophy?

The heart sound associated with left ventricular hypertrophy is the S4 sound, which is also known as the "atrial gallop." This sound occurs due to the increased pressure in the left ventricle, as the hypertrophied muscle wall makes it less compliant. When the atrium contracts to push blood into the stiffened ventricle, the resulting turbulence creates the S4 sound.

In individuals with left ventricular hypertrophy, often due to conditions such as hypertension or aortic stenosis, the left ventricle’s ability to accommodate incoming blood diminishes, leading to elevated pressures. The sound typically occurs just before the S1 heart sound, marking the end of diastole when the atria contract.

This makes S4 distinct from other heart sounds. S1 represents the closure of the mitral and tricuspid valves, signaling the start of systole. S2 occurs with the closure of the aortic and pulmonic valves, denoting the end of systole. S3, often referred to as a “ventricular gallop,” may indicate volume overload conditions and is not specifically tied to hypertrophy but rather to a more compliant ventricle.

Understanding the characteristics and implications of S4 in relation to left ventricular