Cardiomiopathia

Cardiomiopathia, also known as cardiomyopathy, refers to a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle. In this condition, the heart muscle becomes stiff, thickened, or enlarged, making it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. This can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and other serious complications.

There are several types of cardiomyopathy, each with distinct characteristics. Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common type, where the left ventricle of the heart enlarges and weakens. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy involves the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is characterized by stiffness of the heart muscle, which prevents it from filling properly. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD) is a less common type where fatty and fibrous tissue replaces normal heart muscle in the right ventricle.

The causes of cardiomyopathy are varied and can include genetic factors, viral infections, long-term alcohol abuse, certain medical conditions like thyroid disease, and some cancer treatments. In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown, which is referred to as idiopathic cardiomyopathy.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs and feet, irregular heartbeats, and chest pain. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and sometimes cardiac MRI or biopsy.

Treatment for cardiomyopathy depends on the type and severity of the condition. It often involves medications to manage symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications. Lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, are also important. In some cases, medical devices like pacemakers or defibrillators may be implanted, and heart transplantation is an option for end-stage heart failure.