Microvascular coronary dysfunction (MCD) (abnormities in small blood vessels/arteries in heart) with symptoms of persistent chest pain, primarily impacts women. There are an estimated 2-3 million women in the US with MCD and about 100,000 new cases annually. Recent data from our research group suggests that coronary microvascular disease impairs the way the heart relaxes. This pilot study will attempt to exacerbate this phenotype in an effort to better understand the pathophysiology of the disease. The investigators will recruit 30 volunteers total (10 healthy calibration subjects, 10 women with microvascular disease, and 10 age-match women for the group with microvascular disease). Subjects will undergo a series of "stress" maneuvers in conjunction with advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
Fully understanding and willing to undergo study procedures
Male or Female greater than or equal to 18 years of age
Understanding and willing to sign consent form.
History of cardiovascular, pulmonary, or neurological disease
Hypertension (sitting blood pressure >140/90 mmHg, with measurements recorded on at least 2 occasions)
Diabetes
Unable to give informed consent;
Parallel
Handgrip
Other interventionSubjects will be asked to squeeze and handgrip dynamometer to increase cardiac metabolic demand
Altitude simulation
Other interventionSubjects will breathe a lower concentration of oxygen to simulate the effects of altitude.
Leg exercise
Other interventionSubjects will perform leg exercise to increase metabolic demand.
Diastolic function by MRI
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
