Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a disease in which the heart muscle (myocardium) has thickened or inflamed abnormally. Those with cardiomyopathy typically have heart failure, in most cases the enlarged heart muscle is weak and heart does not pump as it should, resulting in less oxygen-rich blood circulating in the body.

Types of cardiomyopathy include:

• Dilated (congestive) cardiomyopathy – the heart cavity is enlarged and stretched. The most common type.
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – the left ventricle enlarges.
• Restrictive cardiomyopathy – heart muscle cells (myocardium) in the ventricles become very rigid. The least common type.

Symptoms

Cardiomyopathy can show no symptoms, or symptoms can be mild. Some symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath.
• Fatigue.
• Chest pain.
• Rapid or abnormal heartbeats.
• Fainting.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a MemorialCare Physician partner.

Diagnosis

To diagnose cardiomyopathy a wide range of tests and procedures can be performed including:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Digital Echocardiography
• Holter Monitoring – 24-Hour Monitoring
• Stress Test
• Cardiac Catheterization
• Chest X-ray
• Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Treatments

Minimally Invasive Interventions

• Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT)
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
• Pacemaker Implant
• Lead Extractions & Replacement

Surgery

• Septal Myomectomy Surgery

Follow-up Care

MemorialCare's experienced staff provides follow-up care for cardiomyopathy. Follow-up care may include:

• Pacemaker and Arrhythmia Clinic – Patients with an implanted pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) may receive outpatient follow-up care at Saddleback Memorial's clinic.