Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that can lead the muscle wall to weaken, thicken, or stiffen the heart, leading to reduced cardiac function and, in some cases, serious complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac death.
Cardiomyopathy can affect the heart’s function in two main ways. It can cause the heart muscle to become stretched and weak, or thick and stiff. Both of these impact the heart’s ability to effectively pump blood around the body.
Certain types of cardiomyopathy can be inherited, which means they may run in families and can affect children and young people. Other types have different underlying causes, and for some people there will be no known cause, which may be referred to as “idiopathic”.
If you are living with or have had a heart condition, if you are a carer, friend or family member of someone with a heart condition, we want to hear from you.
In this section you can find out more about the types, causes, diagnosis, treatment and ongoing preventative measures for Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is classified into different types, each affecting the heart in a unique way:
1. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
The heart muscle stretches and thins, leading to an enlarged left ventricle that pumps blood less efficiently.
Causes:
2. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) The heart muscle thickens, particularly in the left ventricle, reducing the heart’s ability to fill and pump properly.
3. Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM)The heart muscle becomes stiff, restricting its ability to fill with blood between beats.
4. Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
Fat and fibrous tissue replace heart muscle, mainly in the right ventricle, causing electrical instability and arrhythmias.
5. Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM)
A rare type of cardiomyopathy that occurs during pregnancy or in the months after delivery.
6. Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (“Broken Heart Syndrome”)
A temporary weakening of the heart muscle, often triggered by severe emotional or physical stress.
Cause:
Not everyone with cardiomyopathy experiences symptoms, but when they occur, they may include: • Breathlessness (especially during exertion or while lying down). • Swelling of the legs, feet, or abdomen (fluid retention/edema). • Dizziness or fainting (due to arrhythmias or reduced blood flow). • Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). • Chest pain or discomfort (especially in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
In severe cases, cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest.
Cardiomyopathy is diagnosed using a combination of tests, including:
There is no cure for cardiomyopathy, but treatments can reduce symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications.
1. Medications
2. Devices for Severe Cases
3. Lifestyle Modifications
4. Advanced Treatments
Key Facts
Disclaimer: If you have a heart condition, please consult with your GP before making significant changes to your lifestyle.
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