Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

What is HCM?

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of four types of cardiomyopathy. HCM is a disease of the heart muscle where the muscle becomes thicker and stiffer making it hard for the heart to pump blood to the body. This can lead to problems with the heart and even death.

Causes of HCM

HCM can happen at any age, and it is often inherited. It is the most common type of genetic heart disease. If a parent has HCM, a child will have a 50% chance of having a genetic mutation for HCM, so it is important to talk to your doctor.�

Symptoms of HCM

Many people who have HCM have no symptoms. Sometimes symptoms are misdiagnosed as asthma or other heart conditions too. Common symptoms include:

Shortness of breath
Feeling very tired
Chest pain
Fainting
A heart murmur
Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen
A fluttering heartbeat

Treating HCM

Medication. There is a new medication available to treat obstructive HCM. There are also medications like Beta Blockers, diuretics, Calcium Channel Blockers, and medications for arrhythmias that can help with symptoms.�
Medical Procedures. Sometimes with obstructive HCM, surgery is needed to reduce the blockage. In some cases, this can be done with a non-surgical procedure called an alcohol septal ablation. In severe cases, a heart transplant is needed.
Devices. Sometimes, a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) like a pacemaker or ICD is needed to keep your heart in normal rhythm. A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) may be needed before transplant.
Healthy Lifestyle. Eating healthy foods, exercising, controlling blood pressure, and reducing stress can help keep you healthy longer.