Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
Cardiomyopathy refers to a group of heart muscle diseases that affect the structure and function of the heart. It can lead to various complications, including heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and in severe cases, sudden cardiac arrest. Cardiomyopathy can be classified into different types based on the specific cause, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia.
The condition may be inherited or acquired and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, infections, autoimmune conditions, prolonged high blood pressure, and excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms of cardiomyopathy can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease but may include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling of the legs and ankles, dizziness, and chest pain. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests like echocardiography, electrocardiogram (ECG), and sometimes genetic testing.
Treatment for cardiomyopathy aims to manage symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications. This may involve lifestyle modifications, medications to control blood pressure and improve heart function, implantation of devices like pacemakers or defibrillators, and in severe cases, heart transplantation. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to manage cardiomyopathy effectively and improve the patient's quality of life.