Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is caused by conditions that stiffen the left ventricle, impairing its ability to relax and fill with blood during diastole, despite a normal ejection fraction (≥50%). Common causes include:

1. Hypertension: Leads to left ventricular hypertrophy and stiffening.
2. Aging: Increases myocardial stiffness and reduces elasticity.
3. Obesity: Drives inflammation and cardiac remodeling.
4. Diabetes: Causes fibrosis and impairs diastolic function.
5. Coronary Artery Disease: Ischemia reduces ventricular compliance.
6. Atrial Fibrillation: Disrupts coordinated heart filling.
7. Chronic Kidney Disease: Causes fluid overload and cardiac stress.
8. Inflammatory Diseases: Promote fibrosis via systemic inflammation.
9. Cardiomyopathies: Hypertrophic or infiltrative (e.g., amyloidosis) conditions stiffen the heart.
10. Sex/Hormonal Factors: Women are more susceptible, possibly due to hormonal effects.

These factors often overlap, driven by inflammation, fibrosis, and microvascular dysfunction.

Disclaimer: Owerl is not a doctor; please consult one.