Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy)

Cardiomyopathy (Heart Muscle Disease)

What is Cardiomyopathy?

Cardiomyopathy refers to conditions where the heart muscle becomes structurally or functionally abnormal, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively. It can occur in families due to inherited gene changes, or develop sporadically without affecting relatives. These changes in the heart muscle can lead to symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, and in some cases, fluid retention. Early diagnosis and monitoring are essential to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Types of Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

• The heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, which can make it harder for the heart to pump blood.

• It is a common inherited form of cardiomyopathy and can run in families.

• Symptoms may include chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue, or fluid retention, although some people have no symptoms at all.

• Treatments include medications, implantable devices (like pacemakers or defibrillators), and in selected cases, procedures to reduce the thickened heart muscle.

  
  

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

• The heart chambers enlarge and the muscle becomes weak, reducing pumping efficiency.

• It may be inherited, caused by viral infections, long-term alcohol use, or other medical conditions.

• Some forms are reversible if the underlying cause is identified and treated.

• Treatment focuses on medications and, in certain cases, devices to support heart function.

  
  

Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)

• Rare condition where heart muscle cells are replaced by scar tissue or fat, often affecting the right ventricle.

• It can cause irregular heart rhythms and increase the risk of sudden cardiac events.

• Management involves regular cardiology review, medications, and sometimes implantable defibrillators to reduce risk.

  
  

Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

• The heart muscle becomes stiff and cannot fill properly, although the pumping function may be preserved.

• This leads to reduced blood flow and symptoms of heart failure, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling.

• It is rare and can occur at any age, including in children.

  
  

Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM)

• Occurs in women during the last month of pregnancy or within the first five months after childbirth.

• The heart enlarges and weakens, reducing its ability to pump blood.

• Symptoms include breathlessness, fatigue, and fluid retention. Most women regain normal heart function within a year with timely treatment.

  
  

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (Broken Heart Syndrome)

• Often triggered by extreme emotional or physical stress.

• Symptoms mimic a heart attack, including sudden chest pain and shortness of breath.

• The heart muscle usually recovers within weeks, but ongoing monitoring is recommended.

Living with Cardiomyopathy

Management depends on the type and severity of cardiomyopathy. It may include:

• Medications: To improve heart function, control rhythm, or reduce fluid buildup

• Devices: Pacemakers, defibrillators, or biventricular pacemakers to help the heart pump efficiently

• Procedures or Surgery: In selected cases, surgery or minimally invasive interventions may be used to correct structural problems

• Family Screening: For inherited forms, testing and monitoring of family members is recommended

  
  

With proper treatment, regular follow-up, and lifestyle adjustments, many people with cardiomyopathy can live active, fulfilling lives while minimizing complications.