szívizombetegségek

Szívizombetegségek, or cardiomyopathies, are a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle. These conditions make it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. They can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and other serious complications.

There are several types of cardiomyopathies. Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by an enlarged and weakened left ventricle, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy involves the thickening of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is the least common type, where the heart muscle becomes stiff and less flexible, hindering its ability to fill with blood. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia is another form where the muscle tissue in the right ventricle is replaced by fatty and fibrous tissue, leading to irregular heartbeats.

The causes of cardiomyopathies vary. Some are genetic, inherited from parents. Others can be acquired due to factors such as viral infections, long-term high blood pressure, alcohol abuse, certain medications, or other chronic illnesses. In some cases, the cause remains unknown.

Symptoms of heart muscle disease can include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs and feet, palpitations, and chest pain. However, some individuals may have no symptoms for a long time. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and sometimes cardiac MRI or biopsy.

Treatment for cardiomyopathies focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. This can involve lifestyle changes, medications to control blood pressure, heart rhythm, and fluid retention, as well as medical devices like pacemakers or defibrillators. In severe cases, heart transplantation may be considered. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial for individuals with these conditions.