Cardiomyopathy (Dilated) »
What Is Dilated Cardiomyopathy?
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the heart's ability to pump blood is decreased because the heart's main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, is enlarged and weakened; this causes a decreased ejection fraction (the amount of blood pumped out with each heart beat). In some cases, it prevents the heart from relaxing and filling with blood as it should. Over time, it can affect the other heart chambers as well.
What Are the Symptoms of DCM?
Many people with DCM have no symptoms or only minor symptoms, and live a normal life. Other people develop symptoms, which may progress and worsen as heart function worsens.
Symptoms of DCM can occur at any age and may include:
- Heart failure symptoms (shortness of breath and
fatigue).
- Swelling of the lower extremities.
- Fatigue (feeling overly tired).
- Weight gain.
- Fainting...
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