Cardiomyopathy
Also known as: Enlarged heart, Weakened heart muscle, Heart muscle disease, Dilated cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Expert diagnosis and management at Complete Heart Centre. All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare. All cardiology referrals accepted.
About Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle that make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. There are several types: dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), where the heart chambers enlarge and weaken; hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick; and restrictive cardiomyopathy, where the heart muscle becomes stiff. Cardiomyopathy can be inherited (genetic) or acquired from other conditions such as high blood pressure, viral infections, alcohol use, or coronary artery disease. Over time, the heart can weaken and become less able to maintain normal blood flow, which can lead to heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and other complications. Early diagnosis through an echocardiogram is essential.
Common Symptoms
- Breathlessness during activity or at rest
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Family history of sudden cardiac death (in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy)
When to See a Cardiologist
If you have a family history of cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death, or if you experience unexplained breathlessness, fatigue, or heart rhythm disturbances, a specialist assessment is recommended. Family screening is particularly important for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is the most common inherited heart condition.
How We Investigate
An echocardiogram is essential for diagnosing cardiomyopathy. It shows the size and thickness of the heart chambers, how well the heart muscle is contracting, and can identify the specific type of cardiomyopathy. A Holter monitor may be recommended to check for associated arrhythmias. Dr Grewal will develop a personalised management plan based on the type and severity of cardiomyopathy.
$0
Your cost with Medicare
Related Diagnostic Services
Need Urgent Help?
If you are experiencing sudden or severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, call 000 immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about cardiomyopathy.
Other Conditions We Treat
All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare.
Chest Pain
Chest pain can have many causes, but when it involves the heart it is usually due to reduced blood f...
Palpitations
Palpitations are the sensation of your heart beating too fast, too hard, or irregularly. You may fee...
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the most common cardiovascular risk factors and a leadi...
Heart Failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body's ne...
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in Australia and the leading ...
Ischaemic Heart Disease
Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) occurs when the blood supply to the heart muscle is reduced, usually d...
Concerned About Cardiomyopathy?
With a Medicare card and GP referral, your specialist consultation and all diagnostic tests are fully bulk billed. Book at our Sydenham, Bundoora or Williams Landing clinic.