Cardiomyopathy is a condition of abnormal heart muscle which may lead to heart failure. There are three main types of cardiomyopathy called dilated, hypertrophic and restrictive. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is genetical, Dilated and Restricted cardiomyopathy are a mixed type of cardiomyopathy. The major causes are long time high blood pressure, heart valve problems, metabolic disorders, nutritional deficiencies, genetic conditions, certain viral infections and more. The risk factors for cardiomyopathy would include:
- Family history
- Obesity
- Alcoholism
- Cancer treatments
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Hemochromatosis
Some of the symptoms of cardiomyopathy:
- Breathlessness
- Swelling of the legs
- Chest pain
- Arrhythmia
- Fatigue
- Severe cough
- Dizziness
- Frequent fainting
When should you consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have one or more signs of cardiomyopathy. The doctor would check for the family history as cardiomyopathy may be sometimes hereditary.
Related: Ischemic cardiomyopathy, Dilated cardiomyopathy, Obstructive hypertrophy cardiomyopathy, Endomyocardial fibrosis, Loffler's endocarditis, Alcoholic cardiomyopathy, Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia
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