Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Ischemic Cardiomyopathy is a condition that occurs after a heart attack or a heart disease. It weakens the heart muscles and makes it harder for the heart to work properly. Blood cannot reach the parts of the heart that need it, and the heart starts to deteriorate. The heart may become enlarged and/or weak, and eventually, the condition can lead to heart failure. Some treatments can help delay complications and heart failure.

Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Risk Factors

There are certain risk factors that make it more likely for a person to suffer from a heart attack or heart disease that can lead to this condition. The risk factors can be avoided to reduce the chances of suffering from Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy. Some risk factors include:

• Family history of coronary heart disease
• High blood pressure, also known as hypertension
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Diabetes mellitus
• End-stage kidney disease
• Amyloidosis
• Sedentary lifestyle
• History of smoking tobacco
• Alcohol or drug abuse

Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Causes

Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy is caused by heart disease or a heart attack. In some cases, congenital heart disease can lead to the condition. Most people suffering from this condition do not experience symptoms and are not diagnosed until later in life.

Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Symptoms

In the early stages of this disease, symptoms may not be noticeable. Once the blood flow becomes impaired, patients may start to notice problems. Some of the most common symptoms of Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
• Chest pain and pressure
• Heart palpitations
• Swelling in the feet and legs
• Swelling in your abdomen
• A cough or congestion
• Difficulty sleeping
• Weight gain

Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Diagnosis

Doctors perform a variety of different tests to diagnose this condition. Many of the tests are imaging scans that allow the doctors to watch the heart while it’s working and determine if it is working properly. In most cases, more than one test is needed to diagnose the condition. Some of the tests used include:

• Blood tests
• X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI
• Echocardiogram
• Electrocardiogram
• Stress test
• Cardiac catheterization
• Myocardial biopsy

ISCHEMIC CARDIOMYOPATHY TREATMENT

Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy can be treated. Doctors may recommend one or several different treatments. Some treatments are medical, and others require the patient to make some lifestyle changes. Some common treatment options include:

• Beta-blocker
• Calcium channel blocker
• Diuretics
• Aldosterone inhibitors
• Blood thinners
• Cholesterol medication
• Pacemaker
• Atherectomy
• Stent
• Radiation therapy

ISCHEMIC CARDIOMYOPATHY PROGNOSIS

Prognosis is good for patients that get treatment and change their lifestyles. It is often based on the amount of damage to the heart and any other complications related to the condition. Those who do not seek treatment may suffer severe heart problems that could lead to death. Some people may need evaluation for heart transplant, artificial heart pumps and Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVAD).