Cardiomyopathy affects the structure and function of your heart muscles and can lead to heart failure if left untreated. At Coastal Heart Medical Group, the experienced team of cardiologists provides extensive testing in the office for faster diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions. For more than 30 years, the practice has provided award-winning service and compassionate care in the Santa Ana, California, area. Learn more by scheduling a visit online or by phone today.
Cardiomyopathy is the term for diseases of the heart muscle. There are many different diseases that cause cardiomyopathy and lead to enlargement, thickening, or stiffening of the heart muscle.
Cardiomyopathy may be acquired, meaning it develops over time, or inherited, meaning you’re born with it. Different types of cardiomyopathy include:
This version is typically inherited, though it can also be acquired after chronic high blood pressure, aging, or other diseases, including diabetes and thyroid disease.
One-third of cases are inherited from parents with the condition. Other causes include a history of alcoholism, exposure to toxins or poisons, pregnancy complications, illegal drug use, infections, and other heart conditions.
Specific conditions cause restrictive cardiomyopathy, including amyloidosis, connective tissue disorders, hemochromatosis, sarcoidosis, and some cancer treatments.
Researchers believe this is an inherited disease.
Based on your symptoms and a thorough exam, the team determines which type of cardiomyopathy you have and the best course of treatment.
You may not experience any signs of cardiomyopathy, or symptoms may develop in later stages of the condition. Common signs include:
Cardiomyopathy can cause heart failure, so many of the symptoms overlap in both conditions.
If you have symptoms of cardiomyopathy, the team completes a thorough medical history and physical exam. Your doctors listen to your heart for signs of abnormalities, including heart murmurs and an irregular heartbeat.
Additional testing may include:
The team uses the least invasive testing options available to ensure your experience is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
In many cases, healthy lifestyle practices, including maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough exercise, and managing stress, can be used to manage cardiomyopathy.
If you experience symptoms that require additional treatment, the team prescribes medications to lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots, reduce inflammation, and slow your heart rate to a normal level. Advanced treatments include surgery and surgically-implanted devices to improve your heart’s function.
Schedule a visit for testing at Coastal Heart Medical Group by calling or using the online tool.
