Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition characterized by abnormal thickening (hypertrophy) of the heart muscle, specifically in the left ventricle. This thickening can make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. HCM is one of the most common inherited cardiac disorders and can affect people of all ages, including children and adults.
But many people with the “genetic” predisposition to HCM do NOT develop it. Something triggers the gene. If we can find the triggers and reverse the triggers, I think we can help HCM patients.
And if we Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well, would this help the person with HCM versus violating those principles? I certainly think so. Give the body what it needs and take away what it doesn’t.
What is HCM?
Key features of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy include:
- Thickened Heart Muscle: In HCM, the muscle of the left ventricle becomes thicker than normal, making the inside of the chamber smaller. This can obstruct the flow of blood out of the heart.
- Obstruction: The thickened muscle can cause a narrowing of the outflow tract of the left ventricle (the area where blood leaves the heart). This is known as left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) and can result in reduced blood flow from the heart.
- Arrhythmias: HCM can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, which can cause symptoms like palpitations, lightheadedness, or fainting.
- Enlarged Atria: In some cases, the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) may also become enlarged.
- Genetic Component: HCM is typically caused by mutations in genes that encode proteins in the heart muscle. It is often inherited, but the severity of the condition can vary among family members. The variance is likely because of LIFESTYLE. So yes, we can help you.
Symptoms of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can vary widely and may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, fainting (syncope), and abnormal heart rhythms. Some individuals with HCM may have no symptoms at all.
The diagnosis of HCM involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging tests (such as echocardiography), and genetic testing to confirm the condition and identify specific gene mutations if possible. Treatment of HCM is tailored to the individual’s symptoms and can include medications to relieve symptoms, manage arrhythmias, and prevent blood clots. In some cases, surgical procedures, such as septal myectomy (removal of a portion of the thickened heart muscle) or alcohol septal ablation (injection of alcohol to shrink the thickened muscle), may be necessary to relieve obstruction and improve blood flow.
5 Natural Strategies for HCM
- Get the most advanced blood / urine testing in the world to look for deficiencies of nutrients and excess of toxins.
- Eat seafood. The omega-3s in seafood are undoubtedly going to help HCM
- Get sunshine. Do this directly to the heart. So shirt off, in the sunshine. A red light device is also recommended. Use it 3x per week.
- Get chiropractic. The adjustment helps to balance the autonomic nervous system, this is always a good thing.
- Work with us. Our team can help you, naturally. Let’s reduce/eliminate pharma. Let’s avoid the defibrillator (ICD). If you have an ICD, can we reduce the risk of it providing therapy? Can we help reduce symptoms?
