Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy(HCM) can cause symptoms ranging fromexercise intoleranceto sudden cardiac death.
However, many people do not experience symptoms and may not be aware that they have the condition.
Read on to learn more about the symptoms and potential complications of HCM.
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Age of Symptom Onset
The age at which people with HCM may experience symptoms is highly variable.
The average age at diagnosis is around 40 to 50 years of age.
They can also be because of thearrhythmiaorheart failurethat can develop due to an abnormal heart muscle.
In people with HCM, this results in even more obstruction of blood flow.
Furthermore, exercise may trigger arrhythmia andsudden cardiac deathin people with HCM.
Light and moderately intense physical activity is generally considered safe.
Secondary Symptoms
People with HCM may have other symptoms which may be unrelated to exercise.
This can include palpitations and heart failure.
Arrhythmias can be serious and result in sudden cardiac death.
Even people with no symptoms need to be monitored for the onset of symptoms or complications from HCM.
Monitoring in Symptomatic Individuals
People with HCM who have symptoms should be assessed annually.
Summary
HCM can cause a range of symptoms or no symptoms at all.
People with HCM should be seen by a cardiologist at least annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
The age when people start to experience symptoms from HCM varies greatly.
Some people with HCM never develop symptoms, while others may be symptomatic at a young age.
Though it can happen, it’s less common to have symptoms during infancy or childhood.
Average age of diagnosis is in middle age.
People with HCM need to take special precautions to avoid dehydration, which can worsen symptoms.
Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, and using saunas and hot tubs.
In general, the progression of HCM is slow.
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