What is dilated cardiomyopathy?

Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
Updated on September 23, 2024
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Dilated cardiomyopathy is a relatively common disease in our daily lives. So, what is dilated cardiomyopathy? It refers to a disease characterized primarily by an enlarged heart and a severe reduction in the heart's pumping function. The cause of dilated cardiomyopathy is often unclear. Its clinical symptoms typically present as symptoms of heart failure, such as exertional dyspnea, or severe orthopnea and profuse sweating. Additionally, arrhythmias are also a common manifestation of dilated cardiomyopathy, such as atrial fibrillation, frequent premature ventricular contractions, and ventricular tachycardia. If diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, it is essential to visit the department of cardiology at a hospital for specialized treatment and to take medication as prescribed. (The use of medication should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Liu Yong
Cardiology
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Dilated cardiomyopathy clinical manifestations

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease characterized clinically by a significant enlargement of the heart, a marked reduction in ejection fraction, and a significant decline in heart function. Common clinical manifestations of this disease often present as heart failure symptoms, including chest tightness and shortness of breath after activity, nocturnal paroxysmal breathing difficulties, inability to lie flat, as well as swelling of the lower limbs and abdominal wall, and even conditions such as pleural effusion and ascites. Additionally, it may be associated with various types of arrhythmias, such as premature beats and tachycardia, especially ventricular tachycardia, which are all manifestations of dilated cardiomyopathy.

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Written by Liu Yong
Cardiology
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Can people with cardiomyopathy eat spicy food?

Generally speaking, patients with cardiomyopathy during stable phases may consider consuming spicy food, especially since these patients often have relatively poor appetites. Using mildly spicy food can potentially stimulate the appetite and improve nutritional status. However, from another perspective, excessive consumption of spicy food may cause patients to drink large amounts of water. Excessive intake could potentially increase the burden on cardiac function; therefore, it is not recommended for patients with cardiomyopathy to consume overly spicy foods. Patients with cardiomyopathy also have dietary restrictions, including a diet low in salt and fat, as overly salty diets can also exacerbate the burden on the heart and kidneys.

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Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
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Do you have to take medication for life for dilated cardiomyopathy?

Dilated cardiomyopathy refers to a disease characterized by an enlarged heart, especially significant enlargement of the left ventricle, along with a severe reduction in the heart's ejection fraction. Those diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy generally require long-term, and possibly lifelong, medication management. This includes diuretic medications such as furosemide or spironolactone, and β-blocker agents such as metoprolol or bisoprolol. These medications can effectively improve symptoms of heart failure caused by dilated cardiomyopathy, enhance quality of life, and even extend lifespan. Therefore, it is crucial for patients with dilated cardiomyopathy to take medications as prescribed by a doctor and not to discontinue them arbitrarily.

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Written by Liu Yong
Cardiology
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Late-stage symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy

The so-called advanced stage refers to a phase where cardiac function has reached stage four. The common clinical manifestations of this stage are primarily those of heart failure, such as chest tightness and shortness of breath after activity, inability to lie flat at night, general edema, and even accumulation of fluid in the chest and abdominal cavity. Some patients with severe edema might experience abdominal distension, poor appetite, and even malnutrition, which are all manifestations of heart failure. Once cardiac function reaches stage four, patients with dilated cardiomyopathy are highly susceptible to malignant arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. These types of arrhythmias are a common cause of death in the late stages of dilated cardiomyopathy. Therefore, proactive prevention is crucial for these patients as they have a very poor prognosis, and it is essential to maintain active communication with their families.

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Cardiology
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What department should I register for cardiomyopathy?

Myocardial disease is a common and frequently occurring disease in clinical practice, caused by various reasons leading to pathological changes in the myocardium. Common causes include viral infections, immune system disorders, and other factors, which can lead to degeneration, necrosis, fibrosis, and interstitial edema of the myocardium. This can cause heart failure, arrhythmias, and in severe cases, even death. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely treatment can save patients' lives and alleviate their suffering. It is necessary to consult with a psychiatrist, undergo relevant examinations under the guidance of a psychiatrist, make a clear diagnosis, and actively treat and rescue the patients.