Dilated heart disease is a heart condition in which the heart muscle (myocardium) becomes stretched and weakened, leading to dilatation of the heart chambers, particularly the left and/or right ventricles. This dilation weakens the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently throughout the body.

 

The causes of dilated heart disease can be varied, including :

 

Genetic factors: Genetic mutations can predispose some people to develop dilated heart disease.

 

Viral diseases: Certain viruses, such as influenza or COVID, can damage the heart muscle, leading to myocarditis and subsequent dilated heart disease.

 

Toxicity due to alcohol or certain drugs: Excessive alcohol consumption and abuse of certain drugs can damage the heart muscle and lead to dilation of the heart chambers.

 

Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune myocarditis can cause inflammation of the heart muscle and lead to dilated heart disease.

 

Metabolic diseases: Certain conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or vitamin deficiencies can also contribute to the development of dilated heart disease.

 

Symptoms of dilated heart disease can include increased fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling of the legs and feet, irregular heartbeat and palpitations. Treatment of dilated heart disease is generally aimed at relieving symptoms, slowing disease progression and preventing complications. It may include medications to strengthen heart function, lifestyle modifications such as salt restriction and weight management, and in some cases, surgery such as cardiac defibrillation or heart transplantation.