Everything about Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy totally explained
Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a disease in which the chronic long-term abuse of
alcohol leads to
heart failure. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a type of
dilated cardiomyopathy. Due to the direct toxic effects of alcohol on heart muscle, the heart is unable pump blood efficiently, leading to heart failure. It can affect other parts of the body if the heart failure is severe. It is most common in males between the ages of 35-50.
Symptoms
Symptoms presented by the occurrence of alcoholic cardiomyopathy are the result of the heart failing and usually occur after the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. Therefore the symptoms have a lot in common with other forms of
cardiomyopathy. These symptoms can include
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- Ankle, feet, and leg swelling
- Overall swelling
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath, especially with activity
- Breathing difficulty while lying down
- Fatigue, weakness, faintness
- Decreased alertness or concentration
- Cough containing mucus, or pink, frothy material
- Decreased urine output (oliguria)
- Need to urinate at night (nocturia)
- Palpitations
- Irregular or rapid pulse
Diagnosis
Abnormal heart sounds, murmurs,
EKG abnormalities, and enlarged heart on chest x-ray may lead to the diagnosis.
Echocardiogram abnormalities and
cardiac catheterization or
angiogram to rule out coronary artery blockages, along with a history of alcohol abuse can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for alcoholic cardiomyopathy involves lifestyle changes, including complete abstinence from alcohol use, a low sodium diet, and fluid restriction, as well as medications. Medications may include
ACE inhibitors,
beta blockers, and
diuretics which are commonly used with other forms of cardiomyopathy to reduce the strain on the heart. Persons with congestive heart failure may be considered for surgical insertion of an
ICD or a
pacemaker which can improve heart function. In cases where the heart failure is irreversible and worsening,
heart transplant may be considered.
Treatment will possibly prevent the heart from further deterioration but is unlikely to reverse the reduced function that has already occurred.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy'.
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