Dilated cardiomyopathy symptoms
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Symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Overview of Dilated Cardiomyopathy Symptoms
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition characterized by the dilation and impaired contraction of the left ventricle, which can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications. The primary symptoms of DCM are related to heart failure and include both systolic and diastolic dysfunction1 2 6.
Heart Failure Symptoms
Systolic Dysfunction Symptoms
Systolic dysfunction in DCM results in the heart's reduced ability to pump blood effectively. This leads to symptoms such as:
- Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Patients often experience difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or when lying down1 5.
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness is common due to the heart's inability to supply sufficient blood to meet the body's needs3.
- Peripheral Edema: Swelling of the legs and feet occurs as fluid accumulates in the tissues5.
Diastolic Dysfunction Symptoms
As DCM progresses, diastolic dysfunction can also develop, leading to additional symptoms:
- Pulmonary Congestion: Fluid buildup in the lungs can cause persistent coughing and wheezing4.
- Low Cardiac Output: Symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting (syncope) can occur due to reduced blood flow to the brain and other organs1 4.
Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Events
Patients with DCM are at increased risk for arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can be life-threatening. Common arrhythmia-related symptoms include:
- Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia): Palpitations or a fluttering sensation in the chest are common3.
- Syncope: Fainting spells can occur due to sudden drops in blood pressure or heart rate1.
- Sudden Cardiac Death: In severe cases, arrhythmias can lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death1 4.
Acute Decompensated Heart Failure
Chronically treated DCM patients may present acutely with decompensated heart failure, characterized by:
- Severe Shortness of Breath: This can occur suddenly and may require emergency medical attention1.
- Rapid Weight Gain: Due to fluid retention, patients may notice a quick increase in body weight1.
- Severe Fatigue and Weakness: These symptoms can become more pronounced during acute episodes1.
Asymptomatic Cases
Interestingly, many individuals with DCM may remain asymptomatic for extended periods. The condition is sometimes diagnosed incidentally during routine medical screenings or family evaluations4.
Conclusion
Dilated cardiomyopathy presents a wide range of symptoms primarily related to heart failure, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and peripheral edema. Arrhythmias and sudden cardiac events are also significant risks. While some patients may remain asymptomatic, others may experience acute decompensated heart failure requiring immediate medical intervention. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of DCM.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a complex, potentially fatal condition caused by genetics, inflammation, or medication side effects.
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedDilated cardiomyopathy: from epidemiologic to genetic phenotypes
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heterogeneous condition with diverse causes and symptoms, and a detailed diagnostic work-up is necessary to identify the specific underlying cause and manage the disease effectively.
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedX-linked dilated cardiomyopathy.
X-linked dilated cardiomyopathy is a genetic condition that can cause heart failure in males and females, with symptoms developing early in life and worsening over time.
Highly CitedPREVENTION OF DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY DISEASE MEASURES TO TREAT IT
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a myocardial dysfunction causing heart failure, and treatment varies depending on the cause and severity of the heart failure.
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) has diverse causes and can lead to heart failure, making early diagnosis and personalized treatment crucial.
Highly CitedTwo-Dimensional and Doppler Echocardiography Alone Can Adequately Define Preoperative Anatomy and Hemodynamic Status before Repair of Complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect in Infants <1 Year Old
In patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, markers of diastolic dysfunction strongly correlate with congestive symptoms, while systolic function variables are the strongest predictors of survival.
Observational StudyHighly CitedAutoimmune dilated cardiomyopathy in PD-1 receptor-deficient mice.
PD-1 may play a role in preventing autoimmune diseases, as it causes severe dilated cardiomyopathy and sudden death in mice.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyHighly CitedDilated cardiomyopathy and chronic cardiac inflammation: Pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy
Dilated cardiomyopathy is linked to immune dysfunction, and future immunosuppressive treatment trials should focus on deep immunophenotyping to identify patients with active inflammation and abnormal immune responses.
Literature ReviewCardiomyopathies: An Overview
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common cardiomyopathy, with HCM being the most important cause of sudden death on the athletic field in the United States.
Systematic Review