1. Trouble Catching Your Breath
Cardiomyopathy is a condition where the heart cannot pump effectively. There are three main types of cardiomyopathy: hypertrophic, restrictive and dilated. Signs of cardiomyopathy are usually the same regardless of the type you have. Because the heart has to work harder and is not able to get the blood to needed organs, there may be various signs of the condition. It's essential to recognize signs early so treatment can begin. If blood is not pumped efficiently to the brain, dizziness and fainting can occur. Fainting may occur more frequently upon exertion.
2. Recognize Abnormal Beats
Some people may not have signs of cardiomyopathy when they are first diagnosed. As the condition progresses and is left untreated, signs and symptoms usually become worse. Because the heart is not working normally, it may lead to arrhythmias or abnormal heart beats. You may feel a fluttering or a rapid heartbeat. Some people may feel their heart is pounding. Life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation, can occur. Chest pain may also develop with or without an arrhythmia present.
3. Watch for Water Retention
In dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart becomes large and weak. Signs of heart failure may develop. One sign to recognize is fluid retention. Fluid may accumulate anywhere. Watch for signs of swelling in the abdomen, legs, ankles and feet. Fluid retention may cause weight gain. Be aware of an increase in weight especially if your diet has not changed. Weigh yourself once or twice a week to monitor weight gain. Because fluid can also occur in the lungs take notice of a wet sounding cough. Shortness of breath may also develop and is a common sign of cardiomyopathy. An individual may experience shortness of breath while lying down or only on exertion. As the condition progresses shortness of breath may worsen.
4. An Energy Crisis
Fatigue is common in all types of cardiomyopathy. As the heart becomes larger and weaker, it cannot pump the blood throughout the body normally. Often extreme tiredness occurs. At first, fatigue may seem to be associated with other problems such as lack of sleep or stress. Pay attention to an increase in fatigue for no apparent reason especially if other symptoms are present. People with cardiomyopathy may become so fatigued daily activities such as taking a shower and cooking meals become difficult. Generalized weakness may also develop.
