Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (say "hy-per-TROH-fik kar-dee-oh-my-AWP-uh-thee"), or HCM, happens when the heart muscle grows too thick. The heart gets bigger, and its chambers get smaller. Many people have no symptoms and live a normal life with few problems. But in some people: People who exercise often and hard may have changes in their heart muscle that can be confused with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This condition is called athlete's heart syndrome. It's harmless. When an athlete stops training, the heart will return to a normal size. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is usually passed down through families. Certain genes cause the heart to grow more than it should. You're at risk for this condition if either of your parents or a sibling has it. Talk to your doctor about getting tested. You may not have any symptoms. Or you might: Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you about any health problems you've had and about any family history of heart disease or early and sudden death. You may need tests such as: Your doctor may refer you to a doctor who specializes in heart problems (cardiologist). Based on your symptoms, past health, and family history, the specialist can assess your risk for sudden death. People who are at high risk will need regular checkups. If you are at low risk for sudden death, you may not need to see your doctor often. But you will need a checkup anytime your symptoms change or get worse. Many people don't have symptoms and don't need treatment. If you do have symptoms, your treatment will depend on what your symptoms are and whether you develop heart failure or an abnormal heart rhythm. There are several things you can do to be safe and stay healthy when you have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Conditions Basics
What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy treated?
How can you care for yourself?
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All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardHypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.