What is cardiomyopathy?
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle itself. The muscle may become stretched and weak (dilated cardiomyopathy), abnormally thick (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) or stiff (restrictive cardiomyopathy). Some forms are inherited, so family members may be screened.
What causes it?
- Inherited gene changes (several types run in families)
- A viral infection that inflamed the heart muscle (myocarditis)
- Long-standing high blood pressure or valve disease
- Excess alcohol or certain drugs and medications
- Pregnancy, in a small number of women (peripartum cardiomyopathy)
- In many cases, no cause is identified
Symptoms
- Breathlessness on exertion
- Tiredness and reduced exercise capacity
- Chest discomfort or pressure on exertion
- Palpitations, dizziness or fainting — particularly important in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Swelling of the ankles or abdomen as the condition progresses
When to seek emergency care
Call your local emergency services immediately for fainting, chest pain, severe breathlessness at rest, or palpitations with dizziness. People with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy should avoid very strenuous competitive exercise unless cleared by their cardiologist.
How is it diagnosed?
An echocardiogram and ECG are the key first tests; cardiac MRI adds detail, and genetic testing with family screening is offered for suspected inherited forms. Your cardiologist will also look for treatable causes.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and how it is affecting you: medicines that protect the heart and control rhythm, devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators for those at risk of dangerous rhythms, and surgery for specific problems (for example, reducing an overgrown septum). A small number of people with advanced disease are considered for heart transplantation. Regular cardiology follow-up is essential.
Related: heart failure · myocarditis · arrhythmias