Many toxic substances can cause weakening of the heart muscle. The most common is excessive alcohol intake, which can result in severe dilated cardiomyopathy. In some instances, this can be reversed if alcohol intake is stopped. The most common problem occurs when the heart muscle is scarred and the heart is dilated because of a previous heart attack or heart attacks, in which case the damage is irreversible.
Cardiomyopathy is the umbrella term for various conditions that cause the heart muscle to become enlarged, thicken or stiff.
Not every person with cardiomyopathy has noticeable symptoms, the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says, so it's important to learn the major risk factors.
* Having other family members with a history of cardiomyopathy, heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest.
* Having another condition that can lead to cardiomyopathy, such as a prior heart attack, heart disease or heart inflammation due to a viral infection.
* Being diabetic, having a metabolic disorder or being severely obese.
* Having had a disease that causes heart damage.
* Being a long-time alcoholic.
* Having had high blood pressure for a long time.
Treatment of Cardiomyopathy
Treatment depends on the patient's symptoms, age, general health, and the specific type and severity of cardiomyopathy. If a treatable underlying cause, such as alcoholism can be identified, it should be treated.
Depending on the type of cardiomyopathy, certain drugs may be prescribed to decrease the heart's workload, regulate the heartbeat, help prevent blood clot formation, and help prevent fluid accumulation in the body. These drugs include vasodilators, digitalis (digoxin), ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") and diuretics ("water pills").
Congestive and dilated cardiomyopathies often respond well, at least initially, to medical therapy. Treatment of some cardiomyopathies that result from viral infections may not be effective. Therapy for those with restrictive cardiomyopathy may be particularly limited. If end-stage heart failure develops, heart transplantation may be necessary.
Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Cardiomyopathy
Is it a heart muscle problem?
What is causing the symptoms?
What type of cardiomyopathy is it?
Has there been any permanent damage to the heart?
Are further tests necessary?
What treatment do you recommend?
Can medication help?
source: healthscout
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