Living with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

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If you have been diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or have a friend and loved one suffering from the condition, then this post is for you.

Firstly, it is important to remember that despite having a diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, most patients can leave a completely normal life. Most patients will live a normal lifespan and very rarely do patients die suddenly.

Taking the right steps

Below are certain simple measures that one must observe if they have this condition.

1. Controlled physical activity

Individuals who suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are strongly recommended NOT to participate in strenuous sporting activities. This is because the stress on the heart can be too much and may cause serious problems. In particular the thickened heart muscle does not get sufficient amount of oxygen during strenuous activity and this can cause a heart attack or irregular heart rhythms.

Avoid heavy lifting. Individuals are therefore requested to participate in light physical activity that does not do much stress on the body and the heart.

2. Following a healthy diet

Eating unhealthily can make a person overweight and placed them at risk of developing coronary artery disease. Having a healthy heart can reduce the chances of a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy developing any problems. Drinking adequate amounts of fluid and staying well hydrated is strongly recommended. Keep the salt intake low and overall fatty food intake low as well.

3. Maintaining a healthy body weight

As mentioned above, being overweight can place the heart at a higher risk of developing problems. Furthermore, in patients who have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, surgery may not be offered as a treatment if the patient is obese. Bear this in mind and do your best to ensure you have a healthy body weight.

4. Stop smoking

Smoking increase the risk of coronary artery disease amongst numerous other illnesses. Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who smoke are at a higher risk of developing heart problems. Smoking must be avoided at all costs.

5. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol can irritate the heart and make it stand beating irregularly. An irregular heartbeat can be life threatening in a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It is strongly recommended that all patients with this condition completely abstain from alcohol but if one has to consumed, seeking professional medical advice is recommended before doing so.

6. Keep your appointments

If you are under the care of a cardiologist, make sure you keep your appointments as arranged.

If you have a family member who suffers from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and are worried if you have it, then this post should help you.

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Dr Vivek Baliga B

Consultant Internal Medicine And Cardiovascular Sciences at Baliga Diagnostics Pvt Ltd

Dr Vivek Baliga is an esteemed consultant specializing in Internal Medicine and Cardiology, with a particular focus on diabetes and cardiovascular disease. His extensive education and training took place in India and the UK, where he successfully completed his postgraduate training and obtained his doctorate. Additionally, he pursued an MBA from the University of Phoenix in the USA. Dr Vivek Baliga currently serves as the managing partner of Baliga Diagnostics, located in Bangalore. Furthermore, he is the visionary behind HeartSense, a platform that promotes patient empowerment, with nearly every article on the website written by him. Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr Vivek Baliga finds joy in running and cherishing moments with his family.