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Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

Stiffening of the heart muscle restricts diastolic filling and leads to heart failure.

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 Restrictive Cardiomyopathy?

Restrictive cardiomyopathy is a form of cardiomyopathy in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally stiff and fails to relax adequately in diastole, limiting filling. Pump (systolic) function is often relatively preserved in the early stages.

Amyloidosis (the most common cause), hemochromatosis, sarcoidosis, and radiation injury are among the leading causes of restrictive cardiomyopathy. Infiltration of or fibrosis in the cardiac muscle produces the typical restrictive pattern.

The disease often becomes symptomatic in advanced stages. Constrictive pericarditis is an important differential because these two conditions can produce similar clinical pictures.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath and fatigue
Leg and abdominal swelling
Exercise intolerance
Palpitations and atrial fibrillation
Near-fainting and dizziness
Loss of appetite and indigestion

Risk Factors

Amyloidosis (TTR or AL amyloidosis)
Hemochromatosis and iron overload disorders
Sarcoidosis
Prior chest radiotherapy
Hypereosinophilic syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Cardiology referral for unexplained shortness of breath and leg swelling
  • Cardiac screening in known amyloidosis or hemochromatosis
  • Referral to a specialist center for cardiac MRI
  • If symptoms worsen or atrial fibrillation develops

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of the underlying cause (tafamidis for amyloidosis, iron chelation)
02
Diuretics for symptom control (used cautiously)
03
Management of atrial fibrillation and anticoagulation
04
Heart transplantation (in end-stage disease)
05
Disease-specific amyloidosis therapies (patisiran, inclisiran)

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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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.