Cardiomyopathy is a condition that affects the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. It is a chronic and progressive disease that can lead to various complications and even heart failure. There are different types of cardiomyopathy, including dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.
Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by the enlargement of the heart chambers, which weakens the heart muscle and reduces its ability to contract effectively. This can result in symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy involves the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle. This can obstruct blood flow and cause symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and fainting.
Restrictive cardiomyopathy is characterized by the stiffening of the heart muscle, which restricts its ability to fill with blood properly. This can lead to symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats.
The causes of cardiomyopathy can vary, including genetic factors, certain infections, long-term high blood pressure, and excessive alcohol consumption. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, heart transplantation.