Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a type of heart disease, symbolized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, and affects the heart's ability to pump blood. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes the left ventricular to become stiff, as well as abnormal changes in the muscle cells and mitral valve. Damage to the heart's electrical system is also a consequence of this disease. This can increase the incidence of arrhythmias and sudden death. HCM causes symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness.

Symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?

Mild thickening of the mycardium may not produce any symptoms, but more severe symptoms can vary from person to person. Some of the possible signs and symptoms of HCM are shortness of breath with exertion, chest pain (angina) that occurs with physical activity or exercise, fatigue, syncope or fainting caused by irregular heart rhythms, dizziness, lightheadedness and palpitations due to arrhythmias. It can also lead to high blood pressure (hypertension), heart attack and/or sudden cardiac death. HCM is one of the leading causes of death in young athletes.

What are the Causes?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is an inherited disorder that affects 1 in 500 people, and is caused by genetic mutations. A family history of HCM is at risk of developing this disease. However, some people with defective HCM gene don't develop this disease at all. Aging and hypertension are also known causes of HCM.

How is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy diagnosed?

The doctor first reviews the patient's family and medical history. Tests are performed to diagnose abnormal thickening of the heart muscles, mitral valve regurgitation or problems with blood flow. The commonly used tests are 24-hour Holter monitor, ECG, Chest X-ray, Cardiac catheterization, Cardiac MRI scan, Echocardiography with Doppler ultrasound and Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). Genetic tests are performed to uncover abnormalities in the genes.

How is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy treated?

There is no cure. The treatment is focused on symptom relief and preventing further complications. Sometimes hospitalization is required, to stabilize the condition. Various treatment options include medications, pacemakers and at times even surgery. Drugs like calcium channel blockers, beta blockers or anti-arrhythmic medications are prescribed, which relax the heart muscles and improves heart function.

A Pacemaker that sends electrical signals to the heart, is inserted under the skin of the left upper chest. It functions to monitor and regulate the heartbeats. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is implanted in the chest to monitor the heartbeats. It also helps restore a normal heart rhythm by delivering small electrical shocks.

Septal myectomy is an open-heart surgery, in which an abnormally thickened heart muscle wall is removed. This improves blood flow and minimizes mitral regurgitation. Septal ablation is the latest treatment option, in which alcohol is injected through a catheter to destroy a small part of thickened muscle.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a serious life-threatening heart disorder. When diagnosed in it's early stages, you can immediately obtain appropriate medical treatment, thereby preventing its more devastating complications. Also, seek to avoid strenuous exercises and overexertion to maintain heart health.