What can increase the workload of the heart, leading to hypertrophy?

The selection of stenosis as the factor that can increase the workload of the heart, leading to hypertrophy, is grounded in the understanding of cardiovascular physiology. Stenosis refers to the narrowing of a valve or blood vessel, which can occur in various forms, such as aortic stenosis or mitral stenosis. When a heart valve is stenotic, it obstructs the flow of blood, making it more difficult for the heart to pump efficiently.

As a result, the heart must exert additional effort to push blood through the narrowed opening. This increased workload over time can cause the heart muscle, particularly the ventricles, to thicken in a compensatory response, a condition known as hypertrophy. This process can lead to altered heart function and may progress to heart failure if the underlying cause is not addressed.

In contrast, the other options do not directly contribute to increased workload that results in hypertrophy. Decreased contractility typically indicates a heart that is less efficient in pumping blood, which could lead to heart failure rather than hypertrophy. Vein dilation usually indicates a state of reduced pressure on the heart rather than an increased workload, and excessive rest does not place additional demand on the heart's workload, as it allows for recovery rather than exert