Idiopathic cardiomyopathy

Alternative names:

cardiomyopathy - idiopathic

Treatment:

Hospitalization may be required when symptoms are severe. Treatment is focused on relief of symptoms. It is essentially the same as the treatment of heart failure.

Medications may include digitalis or other cardiac medications, diuretics, nutritional supplements, and other medications.

A low-salt diet may be recommended. Fluid may be restricted in some cases.

A heart transplant may be considered if heart function is very poor.

Daily weights may be recommended. A weight gain of 3 or 4 pounds or more over 1 or 2 days may indicate fluid accumulation. Activity may be restricted as symptoms progress. Advice to stop smoking and stop drinking alcohol may be given, because these habits may make the symptoms worse.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. There is no known cure for idiopathic cardiomyopathy. Some affected individuals remain stable for long periods, some deteriorate gradually, and some deteriorate rapidly.

Complications:

• congestive heart failure
• cardiac arrhythmias, including lethal arrhythmias
• pulmonary (lung) edema
• total failure of the heart to function (circulatory collapse)
• side effects of medications, including:
  • low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • light headedness, fainting
  • lupus reaction
  • headache
  • GI upset
  • digitalis toxicity

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate cardiomyopathy may be present.

Call your health care provider or go to the emergency room (if necessary) if chest pain, palpitations, faintness or other new or unexplained symptoms develop.