How Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Treated?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition in which the heart muscle becomes thicker than normal. This thickening can make it harder for blood to flow out of the heart to the areas where the body needs it.^1,2

In many cases, HCM is genetic. This means it is inherited from a parent. Some people have no noticeable symptoms, so the condition often goes undiagnosed. Only about 1 in 5 people with HCM ever get diagnosed. That is why getting regular checkups and paying attention to any new or unusual signs and symptoms is so vital.³

There are several ways to treat and manage HCM. Treatment depends on your overall health, the severity of your symptoms, and any other health issues (comorbidities) you may have. HCM treatment consists of:^1,2

• Medicines
• Surgical procedures
• Lifestyle changes

Medicines for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Several different medicines can help manage HCM symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your doctor may prescribe any of the following:^1,2,4,5

• Beta-blockers – These drugs slow down your heart rate. They also reduce the force of heart muscle contractions.
• Calcium channel blockers – These medicines help relax the heart muscle and lessen the amount of force the heart uses to pump blood.
• Cardiac myosin inhibitors – This is a new class of drug that can help reduce how hard the heart beats and is used specifically to treat HCM.
• Diuretics – These drugs help remove excess fluid from the body that can strain the heart.

It is important to take your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you. Do not stop taking medicine without talking to your doctor first.

Surgical procedures

Sometimes, medicine alone is not enough to manage HCM. In these cases, doctors might recommend a procedure or surgery. Here are some options:^1,2

• Septal myectomy – This is an open-heart surgery. After cutting open the chest, the surgeon removes a small part of the thickened heart muscle. This makes it easier for blood to flow out of the heart.
• Septal ablation – This less invasive procedure uses a type of alcohol called ethanol to shrink some of the thickened heart muscle. The surgeon inserts a thin tube into a main artery and then injects a small amount of ethanol. This causes some of the thickened heart muscle to shrink.
• Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) – Having HCM increases the risk of irregular heartbeats. Some people who have HCM may need an ICD. An ICD is a small device placed in the chest. It monitors the heart rhythm. If it detects irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), it delivers a small electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.
• Pacemaker – A pacemaker is another small device placed in the chest. It helps regulate heart rate. This is used in people who experience severe enough cardiac events where the heart is no longer able to send electrical signals to beat properly.
• Heart transplant – People with advanced, end-stage heart disease may need a heart transplant. This surgery replaces the diseased heart with a healthy heart from a donor.

Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of each procedure with you. They will help you decide which option is best for you.

Lifestyle changes

Healthy habits are a critical part of managing HCM. These lifestyle habits can help you feel better and live a healthier life. Here are some things you can do:²

• Get regular exercise (ask your doctor what kind of exercise is safe for you).
• Eat a heart-healthy diet.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Manage your stress level.
• Do not smoke.
• Limit alcohol.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other clear liquids.

Work closely with your healthcare team

Living with HCM can be challenging. But by working closely with your doctor and making healthy lifestyle changes, you can manage your condition and live a full and active life. Ask your doctor about any questions you may have.