Health Science

Revolutionary approach to treating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in mothers

Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy have made it possible to manage this condition more effectively in mothers, improving outcomes and reducing the risk of serious complications by Chelsea Parham
Estimated reading time: 3 min 18 sec
Revolutionary approach to treating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in mothers Photo by George Dolgikh on Pexels

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women in the United States.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common genetic cardiovascular disorder that increases the risk of cardiovascular complications such as sudden cardiac death (SCD). Some women with HCM may not know they have the condition until they become pregnant, when the increased demands on the heart can cause symptoms such as heart failure or arrhythmias.

Fortunately, recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of HCM have made it possible to manage this condition more effectively in mothers, improving outcomes and reducing the risk of serious complications.

What Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a genetic cardiovascular disorder that causes abnormal thickening and stiffening of the heart muscle.

The thickening can cause the heart to become less efficient at pumping blood and can lead to the development of arrhythmias. HCM is a relatively common condition, affecting about one in every 500 people in the general population. However, the severity of the condition can vary widely, and some people may have no symptoms at all.

Risk Factors for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Mothers

Women who have HCM face unique challenges when it comes to managing their condition. Pregnancy, in particular, can cause increased stress on the heart and exacerbate symptoms such as heart failure or arrhythmias.

Women who are diagnosed with HCM and plan to become pregnant should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits of pregnancy and steps they can take to reduce their risk of complications. Some risk factors for HCM in mothers include:.

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  • Family history of HCM
  • Previous diagnosis of HCM
  • History of sudden cardiac death in a family member
  • Pregnancy-related complications such as gestational diabetes or hypertension
  • Advanced maternal age
  • Being overweight or obese

Symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Symptoms of HCM can vary widely from person to person. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience symptoms such as:.

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Fainting or near-fainting
  • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Swelling in the legs or ankles
  • Fatigue or weakness

Diagnosing Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Mothers

Diagnosing HCM can be challenging, as symptoms can be subtle or may not appear until later in life. If a woman has a family history of HCM or other risk factors, her doctor may recommend screening tests such as:.

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Echocardiogram
  • Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Exercise stress test

Treating Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Mothers

The treatment of HCM in mothers depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms. Fortunately, recent advances in the management of HCM have made it possible to reduce the risk of serious complications such as SCD.

Some treatment options for HCM in mothers may include:.

  • Medications to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications
  • Surgical myectomy or alcohol septal ablation to remove excess heart tissue
  • Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to monitor and treat arrhythmias
  • Genetic counseling and testing to identify other family members who may be at risk for HCM

Preventing Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Mothers

While HCM is a genetic condition that cannot be prevented, women who are at risk for HCM can take steps to manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications. Some steps women can take to prevent HCM in mothers include:.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Managing other health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes
  • Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use
  • Talking with a doctor about the risks and benefits of pregnancy

Conclusion

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a common genetic cardiovascular condition that can pose unique challenges for women, especially in the context of pregnancy.

However, recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of HCM have made it possible to manage this condition more effectively, improving outcomes and reducing the risk of serious complications such as SCD. Women who are at risk for HCM should talk with their doctor about steps they can take to manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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