Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): Causes and treatments Health ConditionsHealth ConditionsAlzheimer's & DementiaAnxietyArthritisAsthma & AllergiesBreast CancerCancerCardiovascular HealthCOVID-19Dermatology & SkincareDiabetesEnvironment & SustainabilityExercise & FitnessEye HealthHeadache & MigraineHealth EquityHIV & AIDSHuman BiologyInflammatory Bowel DiseaseLeukemiaLGBTQIA+Men's HealthMental HealthMultiple Sclerosis (MS)NutritionParkinson's DiseasePsoriasisSexual HealthWomen's HealthDiscoverNewsLatest NewsOriginal SeriesMedical MythsHonest NutritionThrough My EyesNew Normal HealthPodcastsHow to understand chronic painWhat is behind vaccine hesitancy?The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cureNew directions in dementia researchCan psychedelics rewire a depressed, anxious brain?Why climate change matters for human healthToolsGeneral HealthDrugs A-ZHealth HubsHealth ToolsBMI Calculators and ChartsBlood Pressure Chart: Ranges and GuideBreast Cancer: Self-Examination GuideSleep CalculatorHealth ProductsAffordable Therapy OptionsBlood Pressure MonitorsDiabetic SuppliesFitness TrackersHome GymsGreen Cleaning ProductsHow to Shop for CBDQuizzesRA Myths vs FactsType 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood SugarAnkylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or FictionConnectAbout Medical News TodayWho We AreOur Editorial ProcessContent IntegrityConscious LanguageNewslettersSign UpFollow UsMedical News TodayHealth ConditionsDiscoverToolsConnectSubscribe What causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy HCM and how to treat itMedically reviewed by Uzochukwu Ibe, MD, MPH — By Katy Wallis MA on August 26, 2022Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is usually the result of genetic changes that affect the heart muscle. These changes cause the walls of the heart muscle to become excessively thick, which makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood. There are two types of HCM: obstructive and nonobstructive. Among people with an HCM diagnosis, about two-thirds have obstructive HCM, which is when the thicker part of the heart muscle reduces the blood flow from the left ventricle of the heart. Nonobstructive HCM is less common. In people with this type, the heart muscle is thicker than it should be, but the thickness does not block or reduce the blood flow from the heart. This article looks at HCM in more detail, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also discusses the possible complications of HCM and the outlook for people with this condition. What are the symptoms of HCM Share on PinterestMutlu Kurtbas/Getty ImagesSometimes, HCM causes no symptoms. Due to this, many people do not receive a diagnosis of HCM until adolescence or adulthood, despite having had the condition since birth. However, in people who do experience symptoms, HCM can cause:chest pain, especially during or after physical exertionshortness of breath, especially during or after physical exertionextreme tirednesschanges in heart rhythmsdizzinesslightheadednessfaintingswelling in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen, known as edema Learn about different types of edema here. The American Heart Association (AHA) states that HCM is a chronic condition that can worsen over time. This means that the symptoms may become more apparent as time goes on, and people may notice that it starts to have a more significant effect on their day-to-day life. Anyone who experiences new or worsening symptoms should discuss them with a doctor, who can help them find ways to manage the condition. Learn what heart failure can look like in a child. What causes HCM HCM is congenital, which means that it is present at birth. The condition is heritable, and a person with a biological parent with HCM has a 50% chance of inheriting the risk of developing the condition. HCM is due to changes in genes. The genes most commonly involved in the development of HCM are:MYH7MYBPC3TNNT2TNNI3 These genes have important roles in making up key structures of the heart muscle known as sarcomeres. Some of these genes are also important for muscle contractions and relaxations. Experts are not yet completely sure why mutations in these genes lead to a buildup of the heart muscle wall. Learn what heart failure can feel like. What are the risk factors for HCM As genetics are key to the development of HCM, a person cannot take steps to reduce their risk. Most of the time, a person with HCM has one biological parent with the condition. However, in rare cases, both copies of the gene are altered, which can lead to more severe symptoms. What are the possible complications of HCM According to the AHA, people with HCM have an increased risk of experiencing certain conditions. These include:atrial fibrillation, which can lead to: blood clotsstrokeother heart-related complicationsheart failuresudden cardiac arrest, although this is rare The British Heart Foundation also states that people with HCM may have an increased risk of developing endocarditis, which is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. Experts emphasize the importance of an early diagnosis to minimize the risks of these complications. Learn more about congenital heart disease. How do doctors diagnose HCM Healthcare professionals may use a variety of tests to confirm a diagnosis of HCM, including:EKG: This test registers the electrical activity of the heart.Echocardiogram: This scan allows clinicians to see the structure of the heart and how it is pumping.Exercise test: A person will use a treadmill or exercise bike while undergoing an EKG recording. This shows clinicians how the heart works during physical activity.MRI scan: This scan provides detailed images of a person’s heart. A person can also undergo genetic testing for HCM. This will involve providing a saliva sample or having a blood test. How do doctors treat HCM Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only one medication for the treatment of HCM. The medication, called mavacamten (Camzyos), received approval in 2022 to treat people with obstructive HCM. In people who do not yet have symptoms Doctors will encourage people who have a diagnosis of HCM but are not yet experiencing symptoms to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle. This can involve:staying activeeating a heart-healthy dietmaintaining a moderate weightgetting good quality sleepavoiding tobacco products Doctors will also monitor a person for other conditions that may be complications of HCM. Learn about following a cardiac diet. In people who are experiencing symptoms Doctors may recommend medications, surgery, or a combination of both for people with HCM who require management of their symptoms. Medications Medications that can help a person manage the symptoms of HCM include:beta-blockerscalcium channel blockersantiarrhythmicsdiuretics Although these may provide temporary relief of symptoms, they will not treat the HCM itself. They may also cause side effects. It is important to work with a doctor to determine the best treatment regimen. Procedures Surgical procedures that a doctor may recommend for people with HCM include:Septal myectomy: A surgeon removes part of the thickened septum that encroaches into the left ventricle to help improve blood flow.Alcohol septal ablation: In this nonsurgical procedure, doctors inject ethanol, a type of alcohol, into the small artery that provides blood to the thickened heart muscle. The alcohol destroys these cells.Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs): Doctors may recommend CIEDs such as implantable cardioverter defibrillators, pacemakers, or cardiac resynchronization therapy devices to help maintain a typical heart rhythm.Heart transplant: If a person has advanced, end stage HCM, doctors may suggest a heart transplant with a donor’s heart. Learn about cardiac ablation surgery. What is the outlook for people with HCM Many people with HCM experience few or no symptoms, and their life expectancy is the same as it is for those without the condition. Only in rare cases will the condition produce severe symptoms and complications. However, such severe complications may affect a person’s life expectancy. For example, a person with HCM has an increased risk of developing abnormal heart rhythms or other heart problems. In very rare cases, these can be fatal. However, by seeking medical attention as early as possible and then working with a doctor to find the most effective treatment plan, it is generally possible to live a full and active life. When should I contact a doctor for HCM A person should always contact a doctor if they notice changes in their heart rhythm or cardiac symptoms that concern them. Symptoms to be aware of include:shortness of breathchest painrapid or irregular heartbeatslightheadednessfainting Although these are symptoms of HCM, they may also be the result of other conditions. It is important to consult a doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. What is life like with HCM If HCM does cause symptoms, a person may find that the condition affects the following areas of their life:Work: A person may need to discuss their condition with a doctor and their employer if their role is physically strenuous. However, most people find that it does not affect their work.Driving: Most people with HCM can drive as usual, but if a person experiences fainting or dizziness, they will need to notify the driving authorities.Exercise: It is best to discuss an exercise plan with a doctor. If a person notices their symptoms worsening during exercise, they should stop immediately. A doctor can recommend alternative, less strenuous forms of exercise.Diet and drinking: A person should follow a heart-healthy diet and ask a doctor for specific advice regarding food and alcohol. In some cases, they may suggest limiting the intake of alcohol. Sex: It is safe for people with HCM to have sex. However, if this activity feels too strenuous or causes symptoms, it is advisable to stop immediately. People should never stop taking medications without speaking with a doctor. Is it possible to prevent HCM A person cannot prevent HCM, as it is an inherited condition. However, they can help prevent complications of the condition by working with a doctor to find the right treatment plan for them. Summary Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy occurs when genetic changes inherited from biological parents cause the heart muscle to become excessively thick. This can make it more difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. Some people with HCM experience no symptoms at all. Others develop symptoms over time. These can include palpitations, fainting, and chest pain. The treatment options for HCM include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes. Last medically reviewed on August 26, 2022GeneticsHeart DiseaseCardiovascular / Cardiology 7 sourcescollapsedMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.AHN hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). (n.d.). https://www.ahn.org/services/cardiovascular/conditions/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathyFamilial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. (2015). https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/familial-hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy/Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. (2021). https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/conditions/cardiomyopathy/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathyHypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). (2022). https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy/what-is-cardiomyopathy-in-adults/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathyHypertrophic cardiomyopathy. (n.d.). https://www.heartfoundation.org.nz/your-heart/heart-conditions/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathyHypertrophic cardiomyopathy. (n.d.). https://www.texasheart.org/heart-health/heart-information-center/topics/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy/Maron, B. J., et al. (2018). Management of heart failure in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2018/04/11/15/11/clinical-spectrum-and-management-of-heart-failureFEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Uzochukwu Ibe, MD, MPH — By Katy Wallis MA on August 26, 2022 Latest newsWhat sets 'SuperAgers' apart? Their unusually large neuronsOmega-3 may provide a brain boost for people in midlifeSeasonal affective disorder (SAD): How to beat it this fall and winterCDC: Monkeypox in the US 'unlikely to be eliminated in the near future'Why are more women prone to Alzheimer's? New clues arise Related CoverageCongenital heart disease and heart defectsMedically reviewed by Joyce Oen-Hsiao, MD, FACC A congenital heart defect is a type of congenital heart disease. It is a structural difference present from birth. 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