Table of Contents
- Overview
- Symptoms
- Treatment
- Prevention
- Images
Some people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may not have symptoms and live a normal lifespan. Others may get worse gradually or rapidly. The condition may develop into a
People with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are at higher risk for sudden death than the normal population. Sudden death can occur at a young age.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a well-known cause of sudden death in athletes. Almost half of deaths in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy happen during or just after the patient has done some type of physical activity.
If you have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, always follow your doctor's advice concerning exercise and medical appointments. Patients are sometimes advised to avoid strenuous exercise.
Complications
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
Heart failure - Life-threatening heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)
- Severe injury from fainting
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
- You have any symptoms of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- You develop chest pain, palpitations, faintness, or other new or unexplained symptoms
Review Date: 05/17/2010
Reviewed By: Michael A. Chen, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division
of Cardiology, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington
Medical School, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve,
MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
