Alcoholic Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Alcoholic Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Article
Heart & Vascular Health
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAMar 08, 2018

The topic Alcoholic Dilated Cardiomyopathy you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

Quick Summary:

  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a collective term used for heart muscle disorders leading to enlarged and weakened chambers of the heart (atria and ventricles). The condition particularly affects the lower left chamber (left ventricle)
  • The left ventricle is the crucial pumping chamber of the heart. In DCM, its muscles get weak and dilated, with a consequent inability to contract effectively, affecting the pumping of blood
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy affects young, middle-aged, and older adults. Generally, men are affected much more than women; and, individuals of African descent more than Caucasians
  • Several conditions can lead to the weakening of the heart muscles, and therefore, the risk factors for Dilated Cardiomyopathy are numerous. A few such factors include obesity, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, cancer therapies, drug and alcohol abuse, structural heart defects, coronary artery disease, and previous heart attack causing damage to heart muscle
  • The most common cause of Dilated Cardiomyopathy is coronary artery disease. DCM can also be caused owing to gene mutations (20-35% of reported cases), or as a result of weakening of heart muscles due to infection, inflammation, chemicals and drugs. In some instances, the cause may not be known
  • Early symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy include shortness of breath, after a physical activity, and fatigue. Eventually, shortness of breath can develop without physical exertion, along with arrhythmia, low blood pressure, and fluid retention in organs and tissues. If the cause of DCM is an infection, fever and chills may also be present
  • The diagnosis of Dilated Cardiomyopathy involves a thorough physical examination, symptom assessment, echocardiography (ECG), electrocardiography (EKG), stress test, imaging studies, and coronary catheterization. If required, a biopsy of the heart muscle may be ordered
  • Some potential complications of the condition include backflow of blood into the heart (heart valve regurgitation), aberrant heart beats (arrhythmia), sudden cardiac arrest, and fluid build-up in tissues and organs
  • Managing and treating the main disease/condition that causes the heart muscles to weaken is a priority. Depending on the severity of the condition, Dilated Cardiomyopathy may be treated with lifestyle changes, medications, non-surgical procedures, and through surgical implants. Heart transplantation may be recommended in some serious cases
  • If Dilated Cardiomyopathy is inherited, it cannot be prevented. If it occurs because of other medical conditions, then getting suitable treatment for the same; leading an active life, losing excess weight, stoppage of smoking, discontinuing drug and alcohol use, and eating balanced nutritious meals, can help prevent DCM or delay its progression
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a progressive heart condition and the outcome is dependent upon the severity of the condition among other factors. Generally, the outcome is not favorable. Implantable devices for regulating heartbeats and heart transplantation may become necessary

Please find comprehensive information on Dilated Cardiomyopathy regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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