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Hypertension has all of the following effects on the left ventricle of the heart EXCEPT?

A. Hypertension requires the left ventricle to contract with more force.
B. Hypertension increases the filling time of the ventricles.
C. The continued high pressure weakens the left ventricle.
D. The left ventricle hypertrophies as a result of hypertension.

User Jack Casey
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Hypertension affects the left ventricle by requiring more forceful contractions, leading to hypertrophy, and potentially weakening the heart muscle. However, it does not B) increase the filling time of the ventricles as hypertension increases the afterload on the heart. Hence, B) is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The effects of hypertension on the left ventricle of the heart do not include an increase in the filling time of the ventricles; this is the incorrect option from the choices provided. Hypertension often requires the left ventricle to contract with more force to overcome the greater arterial pressures it is pumping against.

Over time, the increased workload can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy, where the muscle wall of the ventricle thickens. This compensatory mechanism allows the heart to pump more efficiently against the elevated pressures. However, continuous high blood pressure can eventually weaken the left ventricle, leading to heart problems such as heart failure.

User Kiwo Tew
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