Peripartum cardiomyopathy
Alternative names:
cardiomyopathy - peripartum
Treatment:
Hospitalization may be required until acute symptoms subside. There is no cure: treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms.
Medications include digitalis or other cardiac medications to strengthen the heartbeat, and diuretics to remove excess fluid. A low-salt diet may be recommended. Fluid may be restricted in some cases. Activity may be restricted when symptoms develop.
Daily weighing may be recommended. A weight gain of 3 or 4 pounds or more over 1 or 2 days may indicate fluid accumulation.
If you smoke or drink alcohol, stop. These habits may make the symptoms worse.
A heart transplant may be considered if heart function is very poor.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome varies but death rate in some series has been as high as 25 to 50%. Some people remain stable for long periods, some deteriorate gradually, and some deteriorate rapidly. The probable outcome is improved in those whose heart size returns to normal after the postpartum period. If the heart remains dilated (enlarged), future pregnancy may result in progression of the heart disease. The woman with peripartum cardiomyopathy may be a candidate for a heart transplant.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if you are currently or recently pregnant and symptoms indicate cardiomyopathy may be developing.
Call your health care provider if chest pain, palpitations, faintness, or other new or unexplained symptoms develop.
|
