What is "cardiomyopathy"?

Cardiomyopathy is a condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened, stretched, or thickened, affecting its ability to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen, and irregular heartbeat. Cardiomyopathy can be caused by various factors, including genetic factors, high blood pressure, heart valve problems, viral infections, or excessive alcohol consumption. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. This may include medications to improve heart function, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and in some cases, surgery to correct heart abnormalities.