Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle is abnormally thick (called “hypertrophy”). Most often this occurs in the left ventricle, which is the main pumping chamber of the heart that pumps blood to the rest of the body. The thickening is progressive and can eventually block blood flow from the left ventricle to the body.

There are two common types of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM):

• Obstructive HCM: The septum (the wall of tissue inside the heart that divides the left and right lower chambers) is thickened. This blocks blood from flowing freely from the heart to the rest of the body, or changes how to the mitral valve opens and closes.
• Non-obstructive HCM: The left side of the heart thickens and becomes stiffer, which impacts how well the heart can circulate blood.

Learn more about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

How We Diagnose Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Patients are evaluated for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy if there is a family history of the condition, if the heart is functioning in an abnormal way, or if they are experiencing symptoms, which can include shortness of breath, fatigue, sudden and forceful heartbeats, chest pressure or pain, dizziness or loss of consciousness.

Several tests may be used to diagnose HCM, most often with cardiac imaging such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI.

Other tests may include electrocardiogram and Holter monitor.

How We Treat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

The goals of HCM care are to improve your child’s symptoms, reduce potential complications, and educate your family on living with HCM.

Medications may be used to treat HCM, including:

• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Diuretics
• Anti-arrhythmics

We will also work with your family to recommend lifestyle changes, such as:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise
• Engaging in routine mild to moderate exercise
• Maintaining a healthy diet

Surgery may be recommended for some patients. This may include:

• Septal myectomy: An open-heart surgery in which the surgeon trims the thickened muscle to allow blood to flow freely.
• Implantable cardioverter defibrillator: A small device that is placed in the chest to help regulate or stop dangerous heartbeats.

Your provider will discuss the treatment options that best meet your child’s individual needs with you.

What to Expect

• Patients are seen by the cardiologist, as well as a genetics counselor who will help to screen other family members for the condition as needed.
• Our exercise physiologist provides specialized stress tests during clinic visits as needed.
• We also provide echocardiograms, EKGs, cardiac MRI and other testing as needed during your visit.
• The frequency of follow up appointments will depend on your child’s individual condition. Some patients have a milder form of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and may only need to be seen in our clinic once a year. Other patients may need to be seen in our clinic more frequently.
• We also have a dietitian who can provide consultation to patient families as needed, as well as a social worker available to our patients.

Resources for Families

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association: Provides support, education and advocacy for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients and their families