Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is primarily a genetic heart condition. It causes the muscle fibers of the heart — mainly in the left ventricle — to thicken and become stiffer.
In cases of obstructive HCM, this thickening affects the flow of blood as it is squeezed out of the heart. It may also affect the opening and closing of the heart’s mitral valve. In nonobstructive HCM, the muscle is thick and stiff, which can still cause symptoms.
HCM affects about 1 out of every 500 adults. It is the most common type of inherited heart disease in the United States.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Symptoms
People living with HCM may experience symptoms such as:
- Chest pain.
- Dizziness
- Fatigue.
- Feeling faint.
- Heart palpitations.
- Swelling in feet or ankles.
- Trouble breathing.
Those who inherit HCM may not experience any symptoms. In some cases, people will die suddenly. In younger people, HCM is the most common cause of sudden death.
Diagnosing Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
People who have a family history of HCM or are experiencing symptoms can see a cardiologist for a screening. Diagnostic tests include:
- Cardiac MRI: A special dye and radio waves are used to look for scar tissue inside the heart.
- Echocardiogram: High-frequency sound waves create an image of the heart.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): Patches attached to wires are placed on a patient’s skin and connected to a machine that measures the heart’s electrical activity.
- Holter monitor: An at-home EKG tracks and captures data showing the heart’s electrical activity over 24 to 48 hours.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Treatment
To help manage HCM, people living with the condition are encouraged to eat a heart-healthy diet. This includes avoiding (or at least limiting):
- Alcohol.
- Deep-fried food.
- Foods high in added sugars, sodium, saturated fat, and trans fats.
- Processed foods.
- Red meat.
Experts also suggest getting regular exercise but keeping workouts to a mild to moderate level and avoiding strenuous activity.
Certain medications can also help control HCM symptoms by regulating blood flow and heartbeats. These include:
- Anti-arrhythmic agents.
- Beta blockers.
- Calcium channel blockers.
- Water pills.
In some cases, surgical intervention may be needed to address decreased blood flow in patients with HCM. That may include:
- Alcohol septal ablation: A catheter is used to inject alcohol into a small artery that carries blood to the septum. Over time, the alcohol reduces the size of the muscle to allow blood to flow more freely.
- Myectomy: Open-heart surgery to trim the thickened muscle and allow blood to flow freely.
UPMC Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center
The UPMC Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center provides patients with comprehensive care and coordinated services. The center is located on the fifth floor of UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh.
An initial visit includes meeting with members of the team to develop a personalized treatment plan. Our team includes:
- Cardiologists.
- Advanced practice providers (such as nurse practitioners or physician assistants).
- Counselors.
- Nurses.
- Surgeons.
In most cases, diagnostic imaging tests can be scheduled that same day.
There is no definitive cure for HCM. But many people can live long, healthy lives, especially if they receive care early.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 412-647-6000 or fill out our contact form.
The HCM program at UPMC Presbyterian is an HCMA (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association) Center of Excellence. It is one of only 48 locations with that designation in the United States.