Dilated cardiomyopathy Health Article

Definition

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart becomes weakened and enlarged, and cannot pump blood efficiently. The decreased heart function can affect the lungs, liver, and other body systems.

There are several different types of cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common form.

See also:

• Alcoholic cardiomyopathy
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
• Ischemic cardiomyopathy
• Peripartum cardiomyopathy
• Restrictive cardiomyopathy

Alternative Names

Cardiomyopathy - dilated

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

There are many causes of dilated cardiomyopathy. They may include nutritional deficiencies, valvular heart disease, anemia, stress, viral infections (rare), alcoholism (alcoholic cardiomyopathy), and coronary artery disease. The most common causes of dilated cardiomyopathy in children are idiopathic, myocarditis, coronary disease, and some infections.

It can affect anyone of any age, although it is most common in adult men.

Risk factors in adults include obesity, cocaine use, a personal or family history of cardiac disorders (such as myocarditis), and alcoholism.

Symptoms

• Heart failure
• Shock
• Swelling of feet and ankles (in adults)
• Swelling of the abdomen (in adults)
• Pronounced neck veins
• Loss of appetite
• Shortness of breath, especially with activity
• Shortness of breath occurring after lying down for awhile ,or in infants while feeding
• Fatigue, weakness, faintness
• Sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations)
• Pulse may feel irregular or rapid
• Decreased alertness or concentration
• Cough
• Low urine production
• Need to urinate at night (in adults)
• Failure to thrive (in children)
• Alström syndrome

Note: Symptoms of heart failure often develop gradually. Some chest pain may also be associated with this disease.