How Does Cardiomyopathy Affect the Heart?
Cardiomyopathy is a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle, leading to a variety of complications and symptoms. It can be categorized into several types, including dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy, each affecting the heart's structure and function differently.
1. Impaired Pumping Ability
One of the primary effects of cardiomyopathy is the heart's reduced ability to pump blood effectively. In dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart's chambers become enlarged, making it less efficient at contracting. This can lead to congestive heart failure, where the body doesn't receive enough blood flow.
2. Arrhythmias
Cardiomyopathy can disrupt the electrical signals that regulate heart rhythms, causing arrhythmias. These irregular heartbeats can lead to palpitations, fainting, or even serious conditions like sudden cardiac arrest.
3. Structural Changes
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy leads to abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow out of the heart. This thickening can result in increased pressure and further complications, including heart failure.
4. Restrictive Effects
In restrictive cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle becomes rigid and less elastic, compromising its ability to fill with blood properly. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
Conclusion
Overall, cardiomyopathy significantly impacts the heart's structure and function, leading to diverse symptoms and complications that require careful management and monitoring by healthcare professionals.