Dilated cardiomyopathy

Description

A type of heart muscle disease that causes the heart chambers to thin and stretch, growing larger.

Overview

Dilated cardiomyopathy makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. Possible causes include diabetes, some infections and obesity. Without treatment, the condition can lead to heart failure.

Symptoms

Dilated cardiomyopathy symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, less ability to exercise, and fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeats. Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet or stomach area also might happen.

Treatments

Dilated cardiomyopathy treatment can include medicines or surgery. Surgery can be done to place a medical device in the chest that controls the heartbeat or helps the heart pump blood. Sometimes, a heart transplant is needed.