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Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic condition that may reduce blood flow into and out of the heart. With a proper diagnosis, medication, and lifestyle changes, HCM can be well managed and avoid complications.
How Much Do You Know About Treating Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
b
a
How many types of HCM are there?
D
C
None of the above
1/8
2 types
3 types
7 types
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Obstructive HCM: occurs when the wall thickens between the left and right ventricles, the heart’s two lower chambers. Nonobstructive HCM: occurs when the ventricle walls thicken, but blood flow to the aorta is not blocked.
Incorrect
There are two main types of HCM:
correct
2/8
All of the above
Swelling in the feet, abdomen, or both
Chest pain
Lack of energy
HCM symptoms can be nonexistent or mild and can include which of the following:
HCM can include a combination of heart-related symptoms and swelling in the lower legs, abdomen, or both.
3/8
HCM is a disease of:
The entire heart, both the left and right ventricles
The heart’s right ventricle, its main pumping chamber
The heart’s left ventricle, its main pumping chamber
HCM is a chronic disease that weakens the heart’s ability to pump enough blood throughout the body. It causes the heart muscle to be enlarged, thick, or stiff, which prevents the heart from pumping blood as it should.
4/8
Seeing their doctor every two years
Both A and B
Managing and monitoring other chronic conditions, such as diabetes and high cholesterol
Eating a balanced diet, getting regular physical activity, and managing other chronic conditions, such as diabetes
Doctors may choose to recommend the following lifestyle choices to manage HCM:
Doctors can recommend regular monitoring of chronic conditions to avoid complications, as well as a heart-healthy diet and regular physical activity for overall well-being.
5/8
DPP-4 inhibitors
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
What other drug types can treat HCM?
Myosin inhibitors
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved mavacamtem as a new treatment for HCM. This drug is part of a class of medications called myosin inhibitors. Mavacamtem targets the heart muscle's structure, among other things.
6/8
If a person has HCM, who in their family should be tested?
Parents
Siblings
Children
According to the American Heart Association, when a person has been diagnosed with HCM, it is recommended that first-degree relatives — siblings, parents, and children — should be monitored for HCM.
7/8
Calcium channel blockers
Beta-blockers
Doctors may start treating HCM with the following medications:
Diuretics
Diuretics: These drugs help eliminate extra fluid and ease the heart’s workload.
For initial treatment of HCM, doctors usually start with medications that help improve the heart’s ability to function. These medications can include:
Beta-blockers: These drugs slow heart rate and reduce the force the heart uses to pump blood.
Calcium channel blockers: These medications ease the heart's workload and lower blood pressure.
8/8
A cardiologist
An endocrinologist
A psychologist
Which doctor should you see for HCM treatment?
A dermatologist
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People with HCM symptoms or a family history of HCM can work with a cardiologist – a heart specialist – to get a diagnosis and find the right treatment.
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0/8
Signs and Symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Understanding Medications to Treat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Understanding Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Here’s some helpful content for you to brush up on your knowledge.
So you didn’t get top marks. That’s okay. It means there’s more for you to learn about HCM, which may result in you being able to manage your condition better.
Time to brush up on your knowledge.
Family History of Cardiomyopathy: Know Your Risk
How Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Is Diagnosed
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments
There’s always more to learn – here’s some helpful content to keep you up-to-speed.
You’re a whiz when it comes to HCM. Great job. Stay on top of everything by taking good care of yourself, listening to your body, and sticking to your treatment plan.
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