Dilated cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle, which usually begins in the main pumping chamber (left ventricle) of your heart. The ventricle stretches and thins (dilates) and cannot pump blood as well as a healthy heart. The term “cardiomyopathy” is a generic term that refers to an abnormality of the heart muscle. Loose cardiomyopathy may not be a cause of symptoms, but for some people, it can be life-threatening. A common cause of heart failure, the heart’s inability to supply the body with enough blood, cardiomyopathy can also contribute to the irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), blood clots or sudden death.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy Symptoms
If you have dilated cardiomyopathy, you’re likely to have signs and symptoms of heart failure or arrhythmias caused by your condition. Signs and symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea) when you’re active or lying down.
- Reduced ability to exercise.
- Swelling (edema) in your legs, ankles, and feet.
- Swelling of your abdomen due to fluid buildup (ascites).
- Chest pain.
- Extra or unusual sounds heard when your heart beats (heart murmurs).
Dilated Cardiomyopathy Causes
The cause of dilated cardiomyopathy often can’t be determined. However, numerous factors can cause the left ventricle to dilate and weaken, including:
- Diabetes.
- Obesity.
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
- Alcohol abuse.
- Certain cancer medications.
- Cocaine use and abuse.
- Infections, including those caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
- Exposure to toxins, such as lead, mercury, and cobalt.
- Arrhythmias.
- Complications of late-stage pregnancy.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy Treatment
If you have dilated cardiomyopathy, your doctor might recommend treatment for the underlying cause, if known. Treatment may also be suggested in order to improve blood flow and prevent further damage to your heart.
Medications
Doctors usually treat dilated cardiomyopathy with a combination of medications. Depending on your symptoms, you might need two or more of these drugs. Drugs that have proved useful in the treatment of heart failure and dilated cardiomyopathy include:
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: ACE inhibitors are a type of drug that widens or dilates blood vessels (vasodilator) to lower blood pressure, improve blood flow and decrease the heart’s workload. ACE inhibitors may improve heart function. Side effects include low blood pressure, low white blood cell count, and kidney or liver problems.
Beta-Blockers: A beta-blocker slows your heart rate, reduces blood pressure and may prevent some of the harmful effects of stress hormones, which are substances produced by your body that can worsen heart failure and trigger abnormal heart rhythms.
Diuretics: Often called water pills, diuretics remove excess fluid and salt from your body. The drugs also decrease fluid in your lungs, so you can breathe more easily.
Digoxin: This drug, also known as digitalis, strengthens your heart muscle contractions. It also tends to slow the heartbeat. Digoxin may reduce heart failure symptoms and improve your ability to be active.
Blood-Thinning Medications: Your doctor may prescribe drugs, including aspirin or warfarin, to help prevent blood clots. Side effects include excessive bruising or bleeding.