Overview
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a type of heart muscle disease where the heart chambers (ventricles) thin and stretch, causing them to grow larger. It typically starts in the heart's main pumping chamber (left ventricle) and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and can become life-threatening, often leading to heart failure. It's more common in men than women, and treatment may involve medications, surgery, or a heart transplant.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy can include fatigue, shortness of breath (during activity or while lying down), reduced ability to exercise, swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or belly, chest pain or discomfort, and fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat (palpitations). Some people may not notice any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. It's important to see a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms, or if you have a family history of dilated cardiomyopathy or heart failure. If you have chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes or have severe difficulty breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing dilated cardiomyopathy include damage to the heart muscle from certain diseases like hemochromatosis, family history of dilated cardiomyopathy, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest, heart valve disease, inflammation of the heart muscle from immune system disorders like lupus, long-term excessive alcohol or illegal drug use, long-term high blood pressure, neuromuscular disorders like muscular dystrophy, and use of certain medications, including those bought without a prescription, and herbs and supplements.
Development
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a type of heart muscle disease that causes the heart chambers (ventricles) to thin and stretch, growing larger. The cause of this most common type of cardiomyopathy is often unknown, but it may be inherited. Other causes include damage to the heart muscle from certain diseases, such as hemochromatosis, heart valve disease, inflammation of the heart muscle from immune system disorders, long-term excessive alcohol or illegal drug use, and long-term high blood pressure.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, reduced ability to exercise, swelling in the legs or belly, chest pain or discomfort, fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat, or if you have a family history of dilated cardiomyopathy, you should see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. If symptoms are severe, such as chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes or severe difficulty breathing, you should call 911 or your local emergency number.
Diagnosis
To diagnose dilated cardiomyopathy, a healthcare provider will typically perform a physical exam, ask about personal and family medical history, and use a stethoscope to listen to the heart and lungs. Tests commonly used to diagnose dilated cardiomyopathy include an echocardiogram, blood tests, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), and Holter monitor. An echocardiogram is the main test used for diagnosis.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of dilated cardiomyopathy include heart failure, leaky heart valves, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), sudden cardiac arrest, blood clots, and damage to other organs due to blocked blood flow. Other potential complications may include diabetes, obesity, heart valve disease, alcohol misuse, exposure to toxins, use of certain cancer medications, and use of illegal drugs.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy. A healthcare provider can provide guidance on managing the condition and recommend appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes.
Treatment
Treatments for dilated cardiomyopathy may include medications or surgery to implant a medical device that controls the heartbeat or helps the heart pump blood. In some cases, a heart transplant may be necessary. The specific treatment plan for dilated cardiomyopathy will depend on the underlying cause, severity of the condition, and the individual's overall health.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for dilated cardiomyopathy, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet, especially if your doctor orders any blood tests.
- Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to dilated cardiomyopathy, and when they began.
- Write down key personal information, including a family history of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, or diabetes, and any major stresses or recent life changes.
- List all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, including doses.
- Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help remember important information.
- Write down questions to ask your healthcare provider, including:
- What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
- What are other possible causes?
- What tests will I need?
- What's the best treatment?
- What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
- Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
- How should I change my diet?
- What's an appropriate level of physical activity?
- Should my family be screened for dilated cardiomyopathy?
- How can I best manage other health conditions together?
- Are there brochures or other printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend? Remember to discuss your diet and exercise habits with your healthcare provider. They may provide guidance on how to make lifestyle changes to help manage dilated cardiomyopathy.