Treatment:
The patient may need to stay in the hospital until acute symptoms start to go away. Treatment is focused on relief of symptoms. Digitalis, vasodilators (drugs that dilate blood vessels), ACE-inhibitors, diuretics (water pills), nutritional supplements, and other medications may be prescribed to reduce symptoms.
The underlying cause should be treated. Some patients 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 with defibrillation capabilities is available.
A low-salt diet may be prescribed for adults, and fluid may be restricted in some cases. The patient can usually continue their regular activities, if tolerated.
Daily monitoring of body weight may be advised. Weight gain of 3 or 4 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 patients 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.
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.
