Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the myocardium (heart muscle) becomes abnormally thick due to an inherited genetic condition. While most cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy do not produce symptoms and do not require treatment, some patients may experience shortness of breath and issues with the heart’s electrical system. Possible other systems include dizziness, fatigue, fainting or chest pain during physical exercise and rapid heartbeat (palpitations). When necessary, treatments for this condition include medications, surgery and implantation of a pacemaker to help keep the heart beating at a normal rhythm.