Health A-Z

Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) is a condition characterized by the enlargement and weakening of the heart's left ventricle, leading to decreased cardiac function. Here's an overview of its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

1. Shortness of breath (dyspnea), especially during exertion or when lying flat.
2. Fatigue and weakness.
3. Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet (edema), and abdomen due to fluid retention.
4. Rapid or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias).
5. Dizziness or lightheadedness.
6. Persistent coughing or wheezing, particularly at night or when lying down.
7. Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention.

1. Medications: Treatment typically includes medications to improve heart function, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. These may include angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, and aldosterone antagonists.
2. Lifestyle Changes: Patients are often advised to adopt heart-healthy habits, such as following a low-sodium diet, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and exercising regularly within their doctor's guidelines.
3. Device Therapy: In some cases, devices such as implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices may be recommended to help regulate heart rhythm and improve pumping efficiency.
4. Surgical Interventions: In severe cases or when medications and other treatments are ineffective, heart transplant surgery may be considered.

1. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough physical exam, including listening to the heart and lungs for abnormal sounds.
2. Blood Tests: These may include tests to check for levels of certain substances that can indicate heart failure, such as B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) or troponin.
3. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormalities in heart rhythm and structure.
4. Echocardiogram: This imaging test uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart. It can show the size and function of the heart chambers and how well the heart is pumping blood.
5. Chest X-ray: This may reveal an enlarged heart or fluid buildup in the lungs.
6. Cardiac MRI or CT scan: These imaging tests provide detailed images of the heart's structure and function and can help diagnose cardiomyopathy.