Confused about Stiff Heart, Diastolic Heart Failure, or HFpEF?

@tinheart, I like your online name. It's so descriptive of your condition.
I have a form of "stiff heart" from my hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, but I thought I would stick my nose in over here just to welcome you to Mayo Clinic Connect, and let you know you are not alone. Stiff heart is not a cool diagnosis.
I found this information below online from AI, and thought it was interesting. Take a look:

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) can lead to cognitive issues, often referred to as "brain fog," due to reduced blood flow to the brain and other related factors. This condition is linked to cognitive decline, affecting memory and thinking abilities.
mdsearchlight.com okheart.com
Understanding HFpEF and Its Impact on Cognitive Function
What is HFpEF?
Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) occurs when the heart's left ventricle retains a normal ejection fraction but becomes stiff and does not relax properly. This condition leads to poor filling of the heart and can cause symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.

Connection Between HFpEF and Cognitive Decline
HFpEF is linked to cognitive impairment, often referred to as "brain fog." This cognitive decline can manifest as difficulties with memory, language, and executive function. The relationship between heart health and brain health is significant, as reduced blood flow from heart issues can affect brain function.

Mechanisms Behind Cognitive Impairment
Reduced Blood Flow: Stiff arteries and heart failure can lower blood supply to the brain, increasing the risk of strokes and cognitive issues.
Calcium Leaks: Research indicates that calcium leaks in brain neurons, associated with heart failure, may contribute to cognitive decline. This leak can activate enzymes linked to Alzheimer’s disease and disrupt neuron signaling.
Chronic Conditions: HFpEF often coexists with other health issues like hypertension and diabetes, which can further complicate cognitive health.
Managing Risks
Improving cardiovascular health through lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and managing blood pressure, can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline associated with HFpEF. Early intervention and treatment of heart conditions are crucial for preserving brain function.

Q: Nobody wants to feel like a 'tin can getting kicked around an alley!"
Have you been able to find a cardiologist who you feel listens to you?
Have you had a second opinion to help you be certain you are on the right path?
Just out of curiosity, and based only on my experience with the Mayo Clinic HCM Department, has the drug Jardiance ever been mentioned?

@karukgirl Its nice to see someone else who is taking advantage of AI for research on HFpEF. It has only been a few months since my diagnosis. A few things stick out to me. 1. Activity is critical but the right amount varies day to day. A little too much is better than too little. 2. Small meals are better. Eating what used to be a normal sized meal makes it harder to breathe. 3. Jardiance made a big difference initially but doesn’t seem to be as effective as it initially was.

Thank you for your reply, @altilla
You must be still processing this whole business since your recent diagnosis.
Your observations are spot on! I like how you are listening to your body and acting accordingly and you are not letting this stop you from being as active as you can. I think that is so crucial to maintaining your health...and almost more importantly your mental health! I love to hike and walk, and when HCM took that from me I was so depressed.
Eating smaller meals is the same for HCM folks as well...and I seem to have a learning impairment! Because even though I know that, on occasions like Thanksgiving I forget about portion control and suffer. Not so smart!
I'm glad to hear the Jardiance helped. Now that you are noticing a decrease in effectiveness, are you going to bring this up to your doctor?