This develops when the heart muscle becomes stretched and thin that prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood to other parts of the body. This occurs when the left ventricle of the heart becomes stretched making the heart muscle weak resulting in fluid accumulation in various parts of the body such as the lungs, ankle and the abdomen suggestive of a heart failure.
Causes
Most often the cause of dilated cardiomyopathy is not established. It is estimated to develop in adults between the ages of 20 – 60 mostly affecting the men more than the women. Some of the factors that contribute to developing this condition can include genetics, cancer medications, exposure to toxic materials such as mercury, thyroid disease, viral hepatitis, high blood pressure, HIV infections, congenital heart defects and diabetes. Some of the risk factors associated with developing this condition can include coronary artery disease, nutritional deficiencies and the disease that can damage the heart.
Symptoms
Most of the individuals affected with dilated cardiomyopathy tend to progress slowly over a period of time while others can present serious symptoms. Some of the common symptom associated with this condition includes the shortness of breath, fatigue, inability to exercise, palpitations and swelling (edema) of legs, ankles and swelling of the abdomen (ascites). It is essential to seek immediate medical help in individuals who experience chest pain, severe breathing difficulty that continues for more than few minutes.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis may initially involve the physician performing the physical examination that involves listening to the sound of the heart and the lungs using the stethoscope. If heart abnormalities are suspected, the individual may be referred to a cardiologist who will conduct various tests to determine the cause. The blood test may reveal the presence of an infection or toxic materials that can be related to dilated cardiomyopathy. The x-ray image can evaluate any abnormalities of the heart, the electrocardiogram can assess abnormal heart rhythm and echocardiogram can reveal the function of the heart. Additional tests can include exercise stress test to monitor the heart rate, the cardiac catheterization can evaluate the pressure of the heart and remove a sample that can be examined for any abnormalities. Genetic screening can confirm the dilated cardiomyopathy, particularly if evident among the close family member.
Treatment
There is no cure available for dilated cardiomyopathy. The treatment usually focuses on the severity, symptoms that are evident in each case and in the prevention of complications. Medications can help in reducing the blood pressure, to slow the heart rate, to decrease the fluid build-up, to prevent blood clot and to reduce heart failure. The implantable devices can include pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator that monitor the heart rhythm. In severe cases, when the treatment is not effective, a heart transplant may be required.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dilated-cardiomyopathy/basics/treatment/con-20032887
