Dilated cardiomyopathy is a form of heart muscle illness in which the heart chambers (ventricles) weaken and stretch, becoming bigger. It often begins in the heart's primary pumping chamber (the left ventricle). The disease often reduces the heart's ability to pump blood throughout the body. Fatigue and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms, which other illnesses can also cause. A person with dilated cardiomyopathy may not experience any symptoms at first. However, it can be life-threatening. Dilated cardiomyopathy is more common in men than in women. The treatment may include medications or surgery to implant a medical device that regulates the heartbeat or aids in the pumping of blood. Sometimes, a heart transplant is necessary.

Symptoms

Many persons with dilated cardiomyopathy do not exhibit any symptoms, particularly in the early stages. However, if your heart function deteriorates, you may encounter symptoms more frequently. Dilated cardiomyopathy symptoms could include:

• Chest pain
• Cough and congestion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Fatigue (unusual tiredness)
• Palpitations or fluttering in your chest
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Swelling in your belly, legs, ankles, and feet (edema)
• Unexpected weight gain

Causes

It can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of dilated cardiomyopathy. The left ventricle can enlarge and weaken for a variety of reasons, including:

• Certain infections
• Complications of late-stage pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Excessive iron in the heart and other organs (hemochromatosis)
• Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Obesity heart valve disease, such as mitral valve or aortic valve regurgitation

Diagnosis

To diagnose dilated cardiomyopathy, your doctor will do a physical exam and inquire about your personal and family medical history. To listen to your heart and lungs, the clinician will use a stethoscope. You may be referred to a cardiologist. Dilated cardiomyopathy can be diagnosed with an echocardiogram, blood tests, a chest X-ray, an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a heart monitor, an exercise stress test, a heart (cardiac) CT or MRI scan, cardiac catheterisation, and genetic screening or counselling.

Treatment

The causes of dilated cardiomyopathy determine how it is treated. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, enhance blood flow, and prevent additional heart damage. Treatment may include drugs or surgery to install a medical device that helps the heart beat or pump blood.

Medications

A mixture of medications may be used to treat dilated cardiomyopathy and avoid problems. Medications regulate the heart's rhythm, assist the heart pump more efficiently, lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and remove fluid from the body. Blood pressure drugs, sacubitril/valsartan, diuretics (water pills), digoxin (Lanoxin), ivabradine, and blood thinners (anticoagulants) are all used to treat heart failure and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Prevention

Unfortunately, this illness is not always preventable. It could be inherited or a side effect of a medication, such as chemotherapy. However, dilated cardiomyopathy may be prevented by:

• Reduce or eliminate your drinking.
• Do not smoke.
• Avoid taking cocaine or any other illegal substances.
• Low-sodium diet.
• Get enough sleep and rest.
• Daily exercise routine.
• Maintaining your weight
• Manage your stress.

Conclusion

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a significant heart disorder that impairs the heart's capacity to pump blood efficiently. Treatment is intended to alleviate symptoms, avoid complications, and improve quality of life. This usually involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and medical equipment. Early detection and aggressive therapy play a critical role in improving heart function and reducing disease progression. For best results, lifelong maintenance and regular check-ups with a medical practitioner are required.