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Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy

A dilated cardiomyopathy caused by chronic excessive alcohol intake.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy?

Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a form of dilated cardiomyopathy with left ventricular dilation and systolic dysfunction that develops after years of excessive alcohol consumption. Ethanol and acetaldehyde exert direct toxicity on myocytes.

It typically affects men aged 35–55 with daily alcohol intake above 90 g. Early symptoms are silent; the disease progresses with arrhythmias (especially atrial fibrillation) and heart failure symptoms.

Complete cessation of alcohol is the cornerstone of treatment. In early disease left ventricular function can recover. Standard heart failure therapy and correction of coexisting nutritional deficiencies (thiamine) are important.

Symptoms

Dyspnea
Edema and weight gain
Palpitations
Fatigue
Chest pressure
Episodes of atrial fibrillation
Exercise intolerance

Risk Factors

Daily heavy alcohol intake
Male sex
Age 35–55
Nutritional deficiencies (thiamine)
Genetic ADH polymorphism
Concomitant liver disease
Hypertension

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Heavy alcohol use with new dyspnea
  • Edema and weight gain
  • New-onset atrial fibrillation
  • Syncope or significant palpitations
  • Need for an alcohol cessation program

Treatment Methods

01
Complete alcohol cessation
02
Standard heart failure therapy (ACE/ARB, beta-blocker, MRA)
03
Diuretic therapy
04
Thiamine and vitamin replacement
05
Management of atrial fibrillation
06
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation and addiction treatment

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

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Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Coronary Artery Disease

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Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.