Possible HCM and very anxious

[Emsharpe]

Hi everyone, I'm a 26 year old female and my father died from complications related to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy when he was in his mid 40s. The family has been scanned but no one else seems to have the disease, including me. I have routine checks but they fill me with fear and anxiety, to the point I can barely function and keep thinking I'm getting symptoms. My dad was diagnosed aged 30 so my cardiologist wanted to keep scanning me until I'm about 35 before giving me the all clear. I think because I associate this condition with my dad dying, I just become consumed with fear that the same thing will happen to me. I have 2 young sons and the anxiety has got worse since having them because i worry they might have it if i do, or if I die they will be left without a mother. I have no symptoms other than a recent occasional palpation that feels like a heart flutter or skipped beat, followed by a massive adrenaline rush and panic. This began a few months ago while I was on antidepressants for my anxiety. I am now off meds but I still get this occasionally. It is not like any other palpation I have had before and is not accompanied by any other symptoms. I need to hear positive stories about young people who've been diagnosed with HCM. They are the only thing that helps reassure me in case I am ever diagnosed.

[Shar28]

Hello, I’m sorry to hear about your situation. I don’t have your condition but my husband has DCM which was diagnosed 2 years ago and can also be hereditary. I worry and get anxious about him and our grown-up kids too. I had counselling that I found really helpful. I wonder if you have had any counselling? Medication for conditions like anxiety can only do so much but talking therapy can really get to the nub and help to cope.

Your GP can refer you or some employers subscribe to an Employee Assistance Programme that provides some free counselling. Talking to the BHF nurse helpline or the Cardiomyopathy UK nurse helpline can be very worthwhile too.

I’m sorry I can’t be more helpful and wish you all the best for your quest for some reassurance, and I guess peace of mind.