Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a disease that causes the heart muscles to become thick, which can make it harder for the heart to pump blood properly. People with this disease may have no symptoms, and some can go years without being diagnosed. In many cases, doctors only find the disease while doing tests and exams for other illnesses. It can cause numerous health problems and in severe cases, even death if left untreated.

Risk Factors for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Some people are more likely to suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy than others. People with parents who have the disease have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the gene mutation that causes the disease. People with other heart problems are also more likely to get this disease. Blood pressure issues can also cause the problem or complicate the condition.

Causes of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

A gene mutation usually causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Other heart problems can lead to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Most people who have this disease also have a disease that causes the wall between the two chambers of the heart to become enlarged and restricts blood flow out of the heart.

Symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Many people do not experience any symptoms of the disease. In some cases, the symptoms are mild, or the patient confuses them with other health problems and does not seek treatment. The sooner the patient sees a doctor for the symptoms, the sooner a doctor can recommend a treatment. Some common symptoms of the condition include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Exhaustion

Diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Doctors can diagnose hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with a physical exam and various tests. These diagnostic tests can determine the severity of the condition and rule out other heart problems with symptoms that mimic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The most common tests used to diagnose this disease include:

• Electrocardiogram
• Treadmill stress test
• Holter monitor
• Cardiac MRI
• Cardiac catheterization
• Genetic testing

Treatment of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Once there is a diagnosis and the severity determined, doctors can come up with a treatment plan for the patient. The goal of the treatment is to relieve the symptoms and reduce the patient’s risk of a cardiac episode.  The patient’s overall health determines the treatment that doctors choose. Some of the most common treatments include:

• Medications
• Septal myectomy
• Septal ablation
• Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator

Prognosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Most people are able to live normal and healthy lives after the diagnosis and treatment. It is important for patients to take their medication properly and follow their doctor’s orders.  Doctors may recommend that patients avoid physical activity and stress, as this can make the condition worse even with treatment.

Complications of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

There are numerous complications associated with this disease. People who are not treated can develop other heart problems and suffer cardiac episodes. The longer the patient goes without treatment, the more likely they are to experience complications. Some common complications include:

• Atrial fibrillation
• Sudden cardiac death
• Obstructed blood flow
• Dilated cardiomyopathy
• Mitral valve problems
• Heart failure