Ischemic Cardiomyopathy is a heart muscle related disease caused due to the insufficient supply of oxygen and blood. This can lead to Congestive Heart Failure(heart attack). The defect arises due to the enlargement and dilation of the left ventricle and hence reducing the heart’s ability to ability to pump blood. It is seen that, in those with Ischemic Cardiomyopathy, the muscles of the heart are permanently damaged due to a heart attack. Ischemic Cardiomyopathy falls under the Dilated Cardiomyopathy category were, the ventricular expansion is the prime cause of the defect.
Previous family history of a heart disease is a possible cause for Ischemic Cardiomyopathy. High blood pressure, High Blood Cholesterol problems, Obesity and Diabetics are other major causes for this defect. People who smoke are also prone to this Disease. Chest Pain. Shortness of breath, Palpitations (sensation of feeling a heart beat), Edema(Swelling of legs), Nausea, Vomiting, Cold Sweats, Indigestion and Dizziness are the symptoms that are noticed in a person with this defect.
There are certain tests conducted to infer the presence of the defect. These include:
- Electrocardiogram
- Echocardiogram
- MRI of Chest
- Exercise stress test
- CT Scan
- Cardiac Catheterization
- Myocardial Biopsy (Tissue from the heart is taken and observed to figure out what is the cause of cardiomyopathy).
Cardiac Catheterization is a procedure of inserting a catheter (metal, flexible tube) into the heart chamber or the vessels of the heart. This is done to find out if a surgery is necessary. Ischemic Cardiomyopathy is treated focusing mainly on heart attack. Angiotensin Converting enzyme inhibitors like captopril, lisinopril and ramipril, angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics and drugs that dilate blood vessels are the medications prescribed.
In patients with an advanced heart problem, Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy is advisable. A Pacemaker fitted to the patient may help improve survival. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators are suggested for those with sudden cardiac arrest. These Defibrillators monitors the rhythm of the heart. Sometimes both these devices are used together.
Prevention measures taken with due care can help. Healthy diet is of prime importance. Other preventive measures include:
- Regular Exercise
- Stop Smoking
- Control Diabetics
- Limit Alcohol Consumption
- Control Blood Pressure
Though the disease is a serious defect, proper discussion with the doctor can help improve the conditions to a good extent. Medication, Change in Lifestyle and Meditation are advisable for a Healthy Heart.
