Cardiomyopathy

Diagnosis

Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle that make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history, physical exam, and imaging tests.

• Physical examination: Checking for swelling, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, and signs of heart failure

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Detects abnormal heart rhythms and structural changes

• Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create images of the heart, showing muscle thickness, chamber size, and pumping ability

• Blood tests: Measure biomarkers like B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) or troponin for heart strain or damage

• Chest X-ray: Can show heart enlargement or fluid in the lungs

• Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of heart muscle structure and scarring

• Genetic testing: May be recommended for inherited forms of cardiomyopathy

• Cardiac catheterization: Assesses blood flow and pressures inside the heart

Early diagnosis is important to prevent complications such as heart failure or arrhythmias.

Treatment

Treatment for cardiomyopathy depends on the type and severity of the condition, and may include lifestyle changes, medications, procedures, or surgery.

• Medications:

  • Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors to improve heart function

  • Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup

  • Anti-arrhythmic drugs to control irregular heartbeats

• Lifestyle changes:

  • Reducing salt intake

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco

• Medical devices:

  • Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) for life-threatening arrhythmias

  • Pacemaker for irregular heart rhythms

• Surgical options:

  • Septal myectomy for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

  • Heart transplant in advanced cases

• Therapies:

  • Cardiac rehabilitation to strengthen the heart and improve overall health

Ongoing monitoring by a cardiologist is essential to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.