What ECG changes are indicative of LV hypertrophy?

Increased amplitude of the QRS complexes is indicative of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) because it reflects the increased muscle mass of the left ventricle, which requires more electrical activity to depolarize effectively. As the left ventricle becomes hypertrophied, the electrical signals generated during each heartbeat are stronger, resulting in taller QRS complexes on the ECG. This change can often be observed in lead V5 or V6, where the left ventricle's muscle mass has the most significant impact on the electrical readings.

The presence of this characteristic change is essential for diagnosing LVH, as it helps clinicians identify whether the heart is adapting to conditions such as hypertension or valvular heart disease. Recognizing these patterns on an ECG is crucial for timely interventions and management of patients with underlying heart conditions.