This is the most common type of cardiomyopathy. This condition occurs when the muscles of the left ventricle become too weak to pump blood efficiently. This causes the muscles to stretch and become thinner. Dilated cardiomyopathy is also called enlarged heart, and it is most commonly caused by coronary artery disease.
Treatment for Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a progressive condition in which the muscles of the heart stiffen or enlarge. This affects the heart’s ability to pump blood to the different parts of the body. Cardiomyopathy leads to several other heart problems including valve problems, heart failure, blood clots in the heart, and cardiac arrest.
People who are more vulnerable to cardiomyopathy include -
- Diabetes Patients
- Alcohol Consumers
- Pregnant Femals
- Rhythm Disorders
- People with family history of cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease or heart failure
Cardiomyopathy has four major types. These are-
In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the muscles of the heart thicken, which affects its normal functioning and prevents blood from flowing through the heart. This type of cardiomyopathy is brought about by genetic mutation. Its other causes include long-term high blood pressure and old age.
This type of cardiomyopathy is caused when the muscles of the ventricles become stiff and do not allow them to expand to fill with blood. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is the least common type of cardiomyopathy, and it generally affects older people. A history of heart ailments increases the risk of this condition.
Right Ventricular Dysplasia- Commonly called ARVD, this type of cardiomyopathy is very rare. It is caused when fat and/or scar tissue replace the muscles of the right ventricle. ARVD leads to abnormal heart rhythms and other cardiac problems. One of its major causes is genetic mutation.
All the other types of cardiomyopathy are generally grouped under ‘Unclassified Cardiomyopathy’.
The common symptoms of cardiomyopathy include -
Symptoms of Cardiomyopathy
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Breathlessness even after little exertion
- Swelling of the legs, ankles and feet
- Heart palpitations
- Chest Discomfort
- Cough while lying down
- Fluttering feeling in the chest
The treatment of cardiomyopathy depends on its type, and the severity of the condition. Therefore, it is vital that you get yourself diagnosed as soon as possible, if you experience any of these symptoms.
If you wish to get yourself or someone diagnosed for cardiomyopathy, you can visit our cardiac centre. Our expert, Dr Shinde will provide you guidance about the prevention and treatment of the condition.