About Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
HCM is a progressive, chronic disease that can lead to complications like heart failure, atrial fibrillation (AFib), stroke, and rarely, sudden cardiac death.
Two types of HCM are non-obstructive HCM and obstructive HCM, with obstructive being the most common. Both cause the heart muscle wall to thicken and stiffen, making it harder for the heart to fill with blood.
In obstructive HCM, the heart muscle becomes so thick that it blocks or reduces blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.
Some people also experience symptoms with obstructive HCM, which is called symptomatic obstructive HCM. These symptoms can worsen over time, even when you are taking medicine to help manage symptoms.
Common Symptoms of HCM
Symptoms that affect your daily activities can be a marker of how severe your HCM is and if it’s getting worse. New or worsening symptoms could mean your HCM is progressing even if you’re taking medicine.
Shortness of breath
Tiredness
Rapid heartbeat
Chest pain
Feeling dizzy or light-headed
Fainting
Fatigue
If the symptoms of HCM are still holding you back, it may be time for a “real talk” with your cardiologist. Use this interactive or printed questionnaire to answer a few questions and to have an informed discussion with your doctor about HCM. Click on the links below to get started online OR download a printed questionnaire that you can fill out by hand.
If the symptoms of obstructive HCM are still holding you back, it may be time for a “real talk” with your cardiologist.
