Treatment:

The person may need to stay in the hospital until acute symptoms start to go away. Treatment is focused on relief of symptoms. Drugs and treatments that may be used include:

• ACE-inhibitors
• Digitalis
• Diuretics (water pills)
• Nutritional supplements
• Other medications to reduce symptoms
• Vasodilators (drugs that dilate blood vessels)

The underlying cause should be treated. Some people may require a biventricular pacemaker. An implantable defibrillator may also be needed to correct or prevent any severe arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms). A biventricular pacemaker that also functions as a defibrillator is available.

A low-salt diet may be prescribed for adults, and fluid may be restricted in some cases. The person can usually continue their regular activities, if they are able.

The person may be asked to monitor his or her body weight daily. Weight gain of 3 pounds or more over 1 or 2 days may indicate fluid accumulation (in adults).

Smoking and drinking alcohol may worsen the symptoms.

If the heart function remains poor, a heart transplant may be considered.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Some people will remain in a stable condition for long periods, some continue to get gradually sicker, and others quickly get worse. Cardiomyopathy can be corrected only if the underlying disease can be cured.

In children, about one-third recover completely, one-third recover but continue to have some heart problems, and one-third die.

Complications:

• Arrhythmias
• Congestive heart failure
• Pulmonary edema
• Side effects of medications, including:
  • Headache
  • Gastrointestinal upset
  • Lightheadedness and fainting
  • Low blood pressure
  • Lupus reaction (a group of symptoms including a skin rash and arthritis)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of cardiomyopathy.

If chest pain, palpitations, or faintness develop seek emergency medical treatment immediately.