Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that weakens its ability to pump blood efficiently. This condition can lead to heart failure, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), and other life-threatening complications. It is diagnosed and treated by a cardiologist.

Cardiomyopathy Types

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): The heart’s chambers enlarge, weakening the pumping ability.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Thickened heart muscles restrict blood flow.
• Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM): Stiff heart walls limit blood filling.
• Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC): Affects heart rhythm.

Common risk factors

• Genetics: A family history of heart disease increases susceptibility.
• High Blood Pressure: Strains the heart over time.
• Diabetes and Obesity: Increase the risk of heart complications.
• Alcohol and Drug Use: Can damage heart muscles.
• Viral Infections: Cause inflammation leading to muscle weakness.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Can attack heart tissues.

Cardiomyopathy Signs and Symptoms

• Shortness of breath (especially during activity or at rest).
• Fatigue and weakness (due to reduced oxygen supply).
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet (fluid retention).
• Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) (fluttering or pounding sensations).
• Dizziness or fainting (due to poor blood circulation).
• Chest pain or pressure, especially during exertion.

Clinical Features

• Systolic dysfunction in DCM, leading to a weakened heartbeat.
• Diastolic dysfunction in HCM, restricting heart relaxation.
• Abnormal ECG findings, indicating arrhythmias.
• Murmurs or abnormal heart sounds, heard on auscultation.

Treatment Options

1. Medications

• Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors: Reduce heart strain.
• Diuretics: Prevent fluid buildup.
• Anti-arrhythmic drugs: Control irregular heartbeats.

2. Device-Based Treatments

• Pacemakers: Regulate heart rhythm.
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs): Prevent life-threatening arrhythmias.
• Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs): Support weakened hearts.

3. Surgical Interventions

• Septal Myectomy: Removes excess muscle in HCM.
• Heart Transplant: Considered in severe, end-stage cases.

4. Lifestyle Modifications

• Regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet.
• Regular monitoring and check-ups.

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Treatment?

Aster Hospitals have an expert cardiologist and advanced facilities for diagnosing and managing cardiomyopathy. We offer personalized treatment plans, state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, and minimally invasive procedures to improve patient outcomes. Our  hospital’s multidisciplinary team ensures comprehensive heart failure management, advanced cardiac imaging, and world-class surgical expertise.