Hypertrophic myocardial disease, also known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, is a condition in which the heart muscles become abnormally thickened, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.

This disease is a leading cause of sudden death in young people, so it is important to understand the common signs and symptoms of hypertrophic myocardial disease.

What Causes Hypertrophic Myocardial Disease?

The exact cause of hypertrophic myocardial disease is still unknown. However, it is believed that genetic factors play a role in its development. Some people may inherit mutated genes that cause the heart muscles to thicken.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Hypertrophic Myocardial Disease

The signs and symptoms of hypertrophic myocardial disease can vary widely. Some people with hypertrophic myocardial disease may have no symptoms at all. However, for others, the symptoms can be quite severe and can significantly impact their daily lives.

Shortness of breath

This is one of the most common symptoms of hypertrophic myocardial disease. People with this condition may experience sudden and severe shortness of breath, especially during physical activity such as exercise.

Chest pain or discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is another common symptom of hypertrophic myocardial disease. The pain may come and go, and it may be felt in the chest, back, neck, or arms.

Fainting or dizziness

Some people with hypertrophic myocardial disease may experience fainting or dizziness, especially during physical activity. This is because the heart is not able to pump blood effectively.

Heart palpitations

Heart palpitations are another common symptom of hypertrophic myocardial disease. People with this condition may feel like their heart is beating too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen

Fluid buildup in the body is also a common symptom of hypertrophic myocardial disease. This can lead to swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen.

Fatigue

People with hypertrophic myocardial disease may feel very tired or weak, even after getting plenty of rest.

Irritability

Some people with this condition may become easily irritated or short-tempered, possibly due to a lack of sleep or oxygen to the brain.

Arrhythmias

Hypertrophic myocardial disease can also cause a variety of arrhythmias, or irregular heart rhythms. These can include atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation.

Sudden cardiac arrest

In some cases, hypertrophic myocardial disease can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypertrophic Myocardial Disease

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of hypertrophic myocardial disease, it is important to see your doctor right away.

Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order a variety of tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), an echocardiogram, and a cardiac MRI.

Treatment for hypertrophic myocardial disease will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s symptoms.

In some cases, lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise, losing weight, and quitting smoking can help to improve symptoms. Medications such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers can also be used to help control symptoms.

In more severe cases, surgery may be required.

This can include septal myectomy, which involves removing a portion of the thickened heart muscle, or alcohol septal ablation, which involves injecting alcohol into a specific artery to reduce the thickness of the heart muscle.

Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest

If you have been diagnosed with hypertrophic myocardial disease, it is important to take steps to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

This can include avoiding strenuous physical activity, especially in hot or humid weather, and taking medications as prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may also recommend an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), which is a small device that is surgically implanted under the skin and monitors the heart’s rhythm.

If an abnormal rhythm is detected, the device can deliver an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.

Conclusion

Hypertrophic myocardial disease is a serious condition that can lead to a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, and heart palpitations.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away. With proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms of hypertrophic myocardial disease and reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.