Cardiomiopatiile

Cardiomiopatiile are a group of diseases of the heart muscle that make it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. These conditions affect the myocardium, the muscular tissue of the heart. There are several main types of cardiomyopathy, each with distinct characteristics. Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by an enlarged and weakened left ventricle, leading to reduced pumping efficiency. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy involves thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle, which can obstruct blood flow. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is the least common type, where the heart muscle becomes stiff and less flexible, hindering the ventricles' ability to fill with blood.

The causes of cardiomyopathy can vary. Some forms are genetic, inherited from family members. Others can be acquired due to factors such as long-standing high blood pressure, viral infections, alcohol abuse, certain chemotherapy drugs, or pregnancy-related complications. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown, 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, palpitations, and chest pain. Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and sometimes cardiac MRI or biopsy. Treatment aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve the heart's function, often involving medications, lifestyle changes, and in some instances, devices like pacemakers or defibrillators, or even heart transplantation.