2024 Volume 10 Pages 5-10
The brain-heart axis denotes the intricate bidirectional communication vital for maintaining overall physiological balance, or homeostasis. Numerous studies underscore the profound impact of cardiovascular conditions on brain health. Conditions such as atrial fibrillation and left ventricular hypertrophy have been identified as potential contributors to cerebrovascular diseases and cognitive impairment. Utilizing of tools such as the electrocardiogram (ECG) are instrumental in identifying atrial fibrillation and left ventricular hypertrophy. Notably, findings from such diagnostic tests correlate with cortical microinfarcts and diminished cerebral blood flow. An elevated P-wave terminal force in lead V1 on an ECG has emerged as a promising indicator of left atrial abnormalities, serving as a potential precursor to atrial fibrillation and cognitive impairment. Ultrasound modalities, such as echocardiography and carotid ultrasound, offer additional insights into the intricate relationship between cardiac function and cognitive dysfunction. In addition to imaging techniques, blood-based markers of cardiac disease, including N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP), high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T, and Growth Differentiation Factor 15, have been associated with cognitive impairment, emphasizing an intricate heart-brain connection. Although exploring the roles of these biomarkers holds significant promise for future research, the interconnectivity between cardiac biomarkers and the brain remains poorly elucidated. The numerous underlying mechanisms linking the heart and the brain continue to elude our understanding and warrant further investigation.
