Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition that affects one in 500 people in the UK. It describes a thickening of the heart muscle, which can stop the heart from working properly. Many people with HCM don’t suffer any serious symptoms, but others can be in danger of sudden death.

What causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and who can get it?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy runs in your family. If your parent has HCM, you have a 50 per cent chance of inheriting the condition. HCM can also be linked to rare diseases such as Fabry’s disease.

What are the signs and symptoms of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

Often people don’t realise that they have HCM until they are in their late teens. This is because the condition develops as you grow.

Symptoms of HCM include breathlessness when doing sport; pains in your chest; palpitations (irregular heartbeats), dizziness and blackouts.

How is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy diagnosed and treated?

ECG and Echocardiogram tests will reveal whether you have HCM. You might also need further tests to find out more about how the condition affects you and the best treatment for you. These tests include cardiac catheterisation, exercise testing and Holter monitor.

So far no cure has been found for HCM but research is still being done. If you don’t show any sign of symptoms, you might not need treatment. The aim of the treatment is to improve your symptoms and prevent further problems. You are likely to start with drug treatments such as beta-blockers. If your heart is struggling to pump blood, there’s a chance you might need a heart transplant.

Looking forward

It’s really important to eat a good diet and to stay a healthy weight so that you don’t put added strain on the heart. Some people with HCM will not be able to play competitive sports – it’s a good idea to discuss what you can and can’t do with your doctor.

A small number of people with HCM have an increased risk of cardiac arrest, which leads to sudden death. If you are at high risk, you will have a defibrillator inserted into your chest. A defibrillator is similar to a pacemaker and helps your heart to beat normally.

For more help and information

Visit the Cardiomyopathy Association

Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 29 August 2007

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