Alcoholic cardiomyopathy
Alternative names:
cardiomyopathy - alcoholic
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is management of heart failure. Hospitalization may be required until acute symptoms subside. Cessation of alcohol consumption may slow or halt the disease progression. Treatment for heart failure may include digitalis or other medications to improve heart function, diuretics (such as furosemide) to remove excessive fluid from the body, or other medications. Low salt diet may be recommended in some cases. Fluid may be restricted. A heart transplant may be considered.
Support groups:
The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See alcoholism - support group and heart disease - support group.
Expectations (prognosis):
The probable outcome is variable. Some affected individuals remain stable for long periods, some deteriorate gradually, and some deteriorate rapidly.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms of heart failure or cardiomyopathy develop.
Call your health care provider if alcoholic cardiomyopathy has been diagnosed and symptoms do not improve with treatment.
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if severe chest pain, palpitations, or fainting occur in a person with alcoholic cardiomyopaathy.
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