Overview

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes too thick. The wall between the two lower chambers of the heart is the thickest part. It may seem like a stronger muscle, but the extra thickness makes it harder for the heart to relax and fill with blood properly. For some people, the thickened muscle can also partially block the blood flow leaving the heart. The condition can vary widely from person to person. Some people never notice any problems, while others may have clear symptoms when they are active or working out.

Symptoms
People can have different symptoms. Some people feel fine, but others may have trouble breathing, especially when they are active. It's also common to have chest pain, tiredness, or the feeling that your heart is racing or pounding. Some people may feel dizzy or even faint, especially when they are working hard. Sometimes, a doctor discovers the condition during a routine checkup when they hear an abnormal heart sound, even if the person has no symptoms.

Causes
The most common cause of HCM is mutations in genes that regulate heart muscle cell growth. This means that it can be passed down through families. Over time, these changes make the heart muscle thicker. Unlike many other heart problems, this one is not usually caused by factors such as diet or exercise. However, overall heart health is still important. In some cases, the condition is diagnosed without a clear family history, but genetics are often a big factor.

Diagnosis
A physical exam and a review of symptoms are usually the first steps in diagnosing. The echocardiogram is the most important test for measuring the thickness of the heart muscle and figuring out how well it is working. An ECG can find problems with the heart's rhythm, and in some cases, more imaging may be needed. If the condition is thought to be genetic, family screening is sometimes recommended.

Treatment
The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and lower the risk of complications. People often take medicine to help their hearts relax and get more blood flow. Sometimes, procedures may be necessary to thin out the heart muscle or fix rhythm problems. Changes to your lifestyle, such as in some cases avoiding hard work, may also be suggested. Many people with HCM can live normal, active lives if they receive appropriate care and are monitored regularly.