About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Symptoms and Understanding the Condition
Introduction
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic condition in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick (hypertrophied). This thickening can make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. While some people with HCM experience no symptoms, others may have serious complications, including arrhythmias and heart failure.
Common Symptoms of HCM
The severity and presence of symptoms can vary from person to person. Below are the most common symptoms:
1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
- Often occurs during physical activity or exertion.
- The thickened heart muscle can impede blood flow, leading to congestion in the lungs.
2. Chest Pain (Angina-like Pain)
- Can be triggered by activity or stress.
- Results from reduced oxygen supply to the thickened heart muscle.
3. Palpitations and Arrhythmias
- Sensation of fluttering or rapid heartbeats.
- Sometimes linked to atrial fibrillation, which increases stroke risk.
4. Syncope (Fainting or Near-Fainting Episodes)
- Due to inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain.
- Can be triggered by exertion or arrhythmias.
5. Fatigue
- Poor circulation and heart inefficiency lead to tiredness even after minor activities.
6. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
- Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
- May precede fainting episodes.
Possible Complications
- Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA): Rare but possible, especially in younger patients.
- Heart Failure: The heart becomes unable to pump blood efficiently.
- Stroke: Due to associated atrial fibrillation increasing clot risk.
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you experience unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting episodes, or severe palpitations, consult a cardiologist promptly.
Conclusion
HCM is a manageable but serious heart condition. Early diagnosis, regular check-ups, and appropriate treatment can improve quality of life and reduce complications.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy/what-is-cardiomyopathy-in-adults/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001250
- https://professional.heart.org/en/education/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy-for-professionals
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000937
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2024-guideline-for-the-management-of-hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Cardiomyopathy-Guidelines
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/37/3503/7246608
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29191938/
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/35/39/2733/853385
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25173338/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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