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DCM Full Form

DCM Full Form

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 05, 2023 11:20 AM IST

What is the full form of DCM?

The full form of DCM is the Dilated Cardiomyopathy. is a condition in which the heart chambers expand and lose their capacity to contract. It frequently begins in the left ventricle (bottom chamber). As the illness progresses, it may extend to the right ventricle and atria (top chambers). The heart chamber weakens and contracts poorly as it spreads. The heart eventually can't pump as much blood forward as it used to. This causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs and throughout the body. This is known as cardiac failure.

DCM is uncommon, but not uncommon. It affects males more than women and primarily individuals aged 20 to 60.

Causes of DCM

DCM can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • HIV and Lyme disease are two examples of infections.

  • Polymyositis is an example of an autoimmune illness.

  • Alcoholism, cocaine usage, heavy metal exposure, and some chemotherapeutic medicines.

  • Thyroid disorder

  • Diabetes

  • Their blood pressure is high.

  • In response to a heart attack or clogged arteries in the heart (coronary artery disease).

  • Heart valve issues

  • Problems with nutrition or electrolytes (rare in the United States)

  • Pregnancy (develops just before or after delivery) (develops shortly before or after birth)

  • Muscular dystrophies are genetic disorders.

What Signs and Symptoms Indicate Dilated Cardiomyopathy?

DCM may not have any symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms may worsen gradually or rapidly. Among the symptoms are:

  • Exertion causes shortness of breath (may progress to shortness of breath when at rest)

  • When resting down, you may have shortness of breath.

  • Shortness of breath that wakes you up in the middle of the night

  • Fatigue

  • Reduced capacity to be physically active and exercise

  • Leg and other regions of swelling

  • Fainting

  • Weakness or feeling dizzy

  • Cough

  • Heart rhythm irregularities

Risk Factors For DCM

The following are risk factors for dilated cardiomyopathy:

  • Certain illnesses, such as hemochromatosis, cause heart muscle damage.

  • Dilated cardiomyopathy, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest in the family

  • Valve disease of the heart

  • Heart muscle inflammation caused by immune system illnesses such as lupus

  • Excessive alcohol or illicit drug consumption over a long period.

  • Chronic high blood pressure.

  • Muscular dystrophy is an example of a neuromuscular condition.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. What are the complications of DCM?

Dilated cardiomyopathy complications include:

  • Failure of the heart. The heart cannot pump enough blood to fulfil the body’s demands. Heart failure, if left untreated, can be fatal.

  • Heart valve leaks (heart valve regurgitation). Cardiomyopathy might make it more difficult for heart valves to seal. A cardiac valve may allow blood to flow backwards.

  • Heartbeat irregularities (arrhythmias). Changes in the size and form of the heart might disrupt its rhythm.

2. When should one see a doctor for DCM

If you develop shortness of breath or other signs of dilated cardiomyopathy, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Speak with your medical provider if a family member has dilated cardiomyopathy. Some kinds of dilated cardiomyopathy are hereditary (are inherited). Genetic testing may be advised.

3. What is the disadvantage of the identification and treatment for DCM?

Characteristics of dilated cardiomyopathy, such as weariness and shortness of breath, might be mistaken for those of other medical diseases, therefore causes a disadvantage in identifying and correcting the disorder.

4. What is the percentage of people that get affected every year by DCM?

One in every 2,500 persons is impacted. It is more common in men than in women. The most common age of onset is middle age. The five-year survival rate is around 50%. It is the most frequent kind of cardiomyopathy in children.

5. What are the preventive steps one can take to reduce the risk of DCM?

Healthy living practices can aid in the prevention or reduction of dilated cardiomyopathy problems. The following steps are suggested for reducing the risk of DCM:

  • Avoid or restrict alcohol consumption.

  • You should not smoke.

  • Don't experiment with cocaine or other illicit substances.

  • Consume a healthful, low-sodium diet (sodium).

  • Get adequate rest and sleep.

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