3b. Cardiomyopathy

What is cardiomyopathy, and how does alcohol affect this condition?

Cardiomyopathy is a disease in the heart muscle. It makes it harder for the heart to pump blood and provide necessary oxygen throughout the body. We already learned that excessive drinking can contribute to this condition, by making the heart muscle weaker.

 

Individuals can also develop what is called alcoholic cardiomyopathy. This is a result of the person drinking excessively or binge drinking.

 

Review the text below to learn more.

What is alcoholic cardiomyopathy?
  • Alcoholic cardiomyopathy occurs when excessive amounts of alcohol begin to damage the heart
  • Parts of the heart begin to stretch and grow, which weakens the heart muscle
  • Just like regular cardiomyopathy, the heart will have a harder time pumping blood, and oxygen, through the body
    • What are the symptoms of alcoholic cardiomyopathy?
  • Chest pain
  • Coughing
  • Feelings of weakness or being tired
  • Feeling lightheaded or passing out
  • Pressure and bulging veins in the neck
  • Trouble breathing
  • Buildup of fluid in the feet, ankles, and lower legs
  • A decrease in appetite
  • Loss of muscle
  • Swelling or hardening in the liver
  • Unpleasant feeling of the heartbeat, or heart palpitations
    • What causes alcoholic cardiomyopathy?
  • Heavy drinking; studies show that heavy drinking for 5 years or more can increase the risk of developing this condition
  • Frequent binge drinking; a person can increase their risk of developing alcoholic cardiomyopathy by binge drinking continuously
  • Genetic mutations; one may have a genetic mutation that causes their body to breakdown alcohol slower than others, increasing their risk
    • How is alcoholic cardiomyopathy treated?
  • Treatment starts by reducing, or eliminating, the use of alcohol
  • Some treatments include care and support for persons who may suffer from alcohol withdrawal symptoms
  • A doctor will also prescribe medication to help patients with symptoms from the disease
  • While a patient may get significantly better through treatment, the only way to cure alcoholic cardiomyopathy is to get a heart transplant
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