hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

[Kodak123]

During an unrelated operation my ECG & blood pressure raised a concern with my heart. After a Eco heart Scan I was informed I have a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy issue and now on Bisoprolol 1.25g medication. What I am trying to find out is what lifestyle changes I need to make, if any. Can I still drink alcohol and can I still use Spa’s, steam rooms, jacuzzi’s etc. I am unable to speak to my doctor or heart specialist until end April. Can anyone with the same condition advise. 😀

[WardijaWardija]

Hi Kodac123.

Welcome to the HCM club !

I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis. It's a bit of a shocker (no pun intended).

I was diagnosed 3 years ago by a cardiac MRI. I have genetically inherited HCM with restriction.

I think to some extent, the way you are told you have this condition, greatly affects your initial mindset and it can be daunting to say the least. The prospect of a sudden death is not on most people's wish-list.

However, acceptance, to some extent, does come, with time.

The BHF has a link to: Cardiomyopathy UK (the heart muscle charity).

cardiomyopathy.org

They have a really useful (free) book they can send out.

With regard to your questions, it's pretty, much a matter of balance and moderation, as are generally always the case with heart related conditions.

Lifestyle and quality of life issues are very personal choices and we make them based on our own particular circumstances.

There's no doubt, a healthy lifestyle is the best thing you can give your heart

The booklet refered to, gives very clear advice on most aspects of living with HCM.

I'm sure others will come along and reply with useful information.

Obviously, I can only speak from my own experience but what I would say, is, know your own limitations and pace yourself accordingly. This is something you will learn along the way, it's trial and error, but let your body be your guide and listen to your "inner voice" - it's there for a reason, don't overdo things.

AND try to keep your stress levels under control, as this really can be a cause to sudden death.

I've found some stress provoking situations, that I would have previously reacted to, are just not worth the risk, let them go. The feeling of being calm is way better.

What can be tricky is friends and family, in as much as getting them to understand your condition and making them aware of your "new normal".

You've changed - they haven't.

Having an invisible illness can be incredibly frustrating.

Take your medications as directed.

Fatigue can be an issue.

Others may not agree, but my approach is, I live to have the best quality of life now, over yearning for (potentially restrictive and miserable ) longevity . . .

That said, I do have other serious life-limiting medical conditions, which contribute to my mindset.

Like I said, it's a personal choice.

I wish you a wonderful life .

Take care 🙏

[Kodak123 in reply to WardijaWardija]

Thank you for your very informative information and link to the booklet. I wish you well and good health. Paul

[Kodak123]

Thank you for your very informative information. I too will watch how much I drink, which was a real concern for me. I wish you well and good health. Paul