Idiopathic dilation cardiomyopathy
Overview
Idiopathic dilation cardiomyopathy: A rare chronic heart muscle condition where one or both heart ventricles are dilated and the heart is unable to contract normally. In idiopathic forms, the condition occurs for no apparent reason
Symptoms
Dilation of heart ventricles Impaired heart function Exercise intolerance Breathing difficulty on exertion Chest pain
Causes
Although no cause (etiology) is apparent in many cases, dilated cardiomyopathy is probably the end result of damage to the myocardium produced by a variety of toxic, metabolic, or infectious agents. It may be due to fibrous change of the myocardium from a previous myocardial infarction. Or, it may be the late sequel of acute viral myocarditis, possibly mediated through an immunologic mechanism.[3] Autoimmune mechanisms are also suggested as a cause for dilated cardiomyopathy.[4] A reversible form of dilated cardiomyopathy may be found with alcohol abuse, pregnancy (peripartum cardiomyopathy), thyroid disease, stimulant use, and chronic uncontrolled tachycardia. Many cases of dilated cardiomyopathy are described as idiopathic - meaning that the cause is unknown
Diagnosis
Home medical testing related to Idiopathic dilation cardiomyopathy: High Blood Pressure: Home Testing Home Blood Pressure Tests Home Blood Pressure Monitors Home Heart Tests Heart Health: Home Testing: Heart Rate Monitors Irregular Heartbeat Detection Heart Electrocardiogram (ECG) Home Cholesterol Tests