Treatment of Cardiomyopathy
Treatment for Cardiomyopathy
Treatment for cardiomyopathy is intended for three things: managing symptoms, prevention of the progression of the illness, and reducing the risk of experiencing complications as a result of cardiomyopathy (deterioration of the heart muscle).
Treatment of Cardiomyopathy
The options for treatment for cardiomyopathy a patient received varies, depending on the type:
Dilated cardiomyopathy: treatment for cardiomyopathy of this type is often in the form of medications, such as ACE inhibitors, which can improve the pumping ability of the heart. Other options include diuretics, which can reduce fluid tension, or beta blockers, which can improve cardiac function.
As an alternative to medications, some patients with abnormal electiocardiograms (electrical activity of the heart), choose to use a special pacemaker. Other enhancements include an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (a.k.a. ICD, electric shocks to control heartbeat).
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: the treatment for cardiomyopathy of this type can also involve beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers, which can relax the heart muscle – slowing and stabilizing beats/pumping action. Pacemakers and ICD are also options, or surgery to remove thickened muscle. Finally, a new treatment for cardiomyopathy (specifically hypertrophic) exists that involves injecting alcohol directly into the heart, breaking down muscle and increasing flow.
Restrictive cardiomyopathy: the primary focus in treatment for this type of cardiomyopathy is diet therapy (salt/water intake and weight management). Medication may be prescribed to lower blood pressure, or manage heart rate.
Make sure to discuss with your doctor before beginning any type of treatment for cardiomyopathy. Many drugs include side effects, and you should be well aware of the possibilities before continuing.
In advanced, or extreme cases, where standard treatment for cardiomyopathy is unsuccessful, and prognosis for survival is poor, a patient will be left with little options, and will likely require a heart transplant.