Cardiomyopathy includes diseases involving the heart muscle. These diseases have various causes, types, symptoms and modes of treatment.

The heart muscle gets enlarged, thick or rigid. In several cases, the heart muscle tissue is replaced with a scar tissue. As this condition worsens, the heart gets weaker and the ability to pump blood is disrupted, which can cause heart failure or irregular beating of the heart. The weakened state of the heart can lead to valvar diseases.

The different types of cardiomyopathy are:

 Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy-
This is a common form and affects people of all ages. Men and women are affected equally. This condition arises due to the enlargement and thickening of the heart muscle. The ventricles, the septum and the lower heart chamber usually thicken, which causes obstruction in pumping of blood by the heart. This disease also causes stiffness in the ventricles, and cellular changes in the tissue.
 Dilated cardiomyopathy-
This form of cardiomyopathy develops due to the enlargement and weakening of the ventricles. The issue arises from the left ventricle and develops over time. It may even affect the right ventricle. More effort is put in by the heart muscles for pumping blood and slowly the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. This condition may lead to heart failure, valve diseases or blood clots in the heart.
 Restrictive cardiomyopathy-
This disease occurs due to the stiffening of the ventricles, without thickening of the walls of the heart. The ventricles are not allowed to relax and do not receive a sufficient volume of blood supply. This condition causes heart failure and valvar problems over time.
 Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia-
This rare form of cardiomyopathy occurs when fat or fibrous tissues replace the muscle tissue of the right ventricle. This causes arrhythmias and disruption in the electrical signals of the heart. It generally affects teens and may cause cardiac arrest in athletes.
 Unclassified cardiomyopathy-
Some types of cardiomyopathy of this category include left ventricular non compaction where the ventricles develop trabeculations. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is another disease where immense stress causes failure of the heart muscles.

Treatment-
Many cases of cardiomyopathy come and go away on their own. Treatment for other cases depends on the severity and symptoms. The major treatment methods are:
Lifestyle changes meant for a healthier heart.
Medication.
Nonsurgical methods.
Surgery and implants

Modes of surgery for treatment of cardiomyopathy include:
Septal myectomy
Heart transplant
Implant devices such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (crt) device, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (icd), left ventricular assist device and pacemakers are fitted into the heart for better performance.

Cardiomyopathy can be of many different types, each arising from different situations and conditions. The mode of treatment depends on the severity of the complication or on the basis of symptoms.

Types and Treatments of Cardiomyopathy

Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator is an electronic device that is located in the chest of the patient suffering from arrhythmia. Arrhythmia is a condition which causes abnormal rhythm of heartbeat in the patients. It is a life-threatening condition. The device is located in the chest to correct the rhythm of a heartbeat.

AICD device works in two ways:

Firstly, it tries to correct the abnormal heartbeat rhythm and release high- speed heartbeat pace. This is called cardioversion. Patients with AICD generally do not feel the process.

However, if the effect of cardioversion is null then the device will give a mild electric shock to the patient's heart to correct arrhythmia and reset the rhythm.

This second method is called defibrillation. The patient can feel the defibrillation.

The modern-day AICD device is programmed to store the data about the patient s heart rhythm. Doctors use the programmed device which contains your condition and provides medically correct therapy.

Preparation for AICD Implantation

The patient is required to fast six hours before undergoing the surgery. On admission, prescribed medicine is given to the patient and the latest heart condition is measured by an ECG test. If the patient is on blood-thinning medication, then it will be stopped 24 hours before the surgery.

The procedure will be carried out by a cardiologist. The patient will remain under observation in the hospital for at least two days.

Procedure

The entire process of setting up the device in the chest of the patient takes about 2 hours. The patient is sedated, and the area below the collarbone is numbed for the operation. A small incision is made in the chest area. With the help of imaging techniques, cardiologist sets up the device in the chest. The device is then connected to the veins and the heart. After the surgery, the patient is kept under observation. Heart rate, blood pressure, and overall health condition are observed by the doctors to determine successful implantation of Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD). Post Procedure After the successful recovery of the patient, doctors usually discharge the patient with AICD attached. The doctors give complete care instructions of the device along with health. Doctors also guide the patient through the list of activities that one can and cannot perform. AICD is a life-saving device. Hence, proper care and regular check-ups are recommended by the doctors. The regular check-up of the device is also essential since the device runs on a battery. The doctors also train the patient about the workings of the device. They will also explain about the mild shocks of the device one may receive to correct the arrhythmia. Before leaving, make sure the site of the surgery is dry and healing, and you do not have a fever for the past 24 hours.

AICD Implantation - Know Procedure Of It!

High blood pressure, which is often a result of hypertension, is the leading risk factor for a stroke, which in turn leads to severe and long-term disability, including death. Managing your blood-sugar levels is the most critical thing you can do to lessen your risk of a stroke, and you should leave no stone unturned in keeping your blood pressure at optimum levels.

What causes a stroke

A stroke, which is often referred to as a brain attack, takes place when the supply of blood to a particular region of the brain is cut off. The brain cells which are deprived of the oxygen and glucose die, and when the ailment is not caught early, a permanent damage to the brain can follow.

How is high blood pressure related to a stroke

Uncontrolled blood pressure levels can increase the risk of a stroke by about four to six times. With the passage of time, hypertension causes atherosclerosis as well as hardening of major arteries. This often results in blockages of small blood vessels present in the brain. With high blood pressure for a long period of time, the blood vessels of the brain become weak and burst. This way the risk of a stroke is directly related to the high levels of blood pressure.

 What can you do to keep your blood pressure under control

There is a  lot you can do to keep the chance of a stroke at bay. But the first thing you should try doing is keeping your blood pressure level normal. Some simple lifestyle changes can help you to lead a risk-free life and therefore, you should first aim at shedding off those extra pounds along your waistline.

In general, a man with a waistline measuring over 40 inches and a woman with that over 35 inches is at a higher risk of suffering from high blood pressure as well as a stroke. You should exercise regularly for at least half an hour and eat a well-regulated diet loaded with fibre, proteins, potassium and Omega-3 fatty acids. Stay away from junk food and maintain a food diary where you can jot down your honest food habits.

It is very important to lower down your high blood pressure in order to avoid risks of stroke. But if you fail to do so even after following a healthy routine, then it is crucial to consult a doctor who can help you by prescribing medications that are right for your medical condition.

Stroke Due to Hypertension - What Should be done About it?

Mushroom is a type of fungi that hails from the Agaricus family. It is estimated that there are close to 1,40,000 types of mushroom, out of which science has been able to classify only 100 odd mushrooms for health benefits. From cutting down cholesterols to preventing cancers, increasing the strength of the immune system to helping in weight loss, there are numerous health benefits of mushroom. This article will explore why mushrooms are regarded so highly by health practitioners across the globe:

Cholesterol levels: Mushroom does not possess any fat or cholesterol. They are rich in lean protein, fiber, and some very important enzyme. The lean protein found in mushroom helps to burn down the LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, it creates a good balance of LDL and HDL cholesterol so that the body can refrain from stroke, atherosclerosis etc.
Preventing cancer: Mushrooms are mighty effective in blocking certain cancer types such as the breast and prostate cancer. Owing to their high linoleic acid and beta-glucans, they act as a very good anti-carcinogen. While linoleic acid can successfully suppress the excess estrogen which leads to breast cancer in women, the beta glucans can suppress the growth of cancer cells in the case of a prostate cancer.
Diabetes: Mushroom is an ideal food for a diabetic patient. They do not possess cholesterol, consists of low fat, have high protein and a lot of minerals and vitamins. Apart from this, mushrooms possess a lot of fiber and water. The most critical component, however, is the natural insulin that mushroom has within itself. They help to break down the starch found in food items. Mushrooms have certain components that help in the proper functioning of the liver, endocrine gland etc. It ensures that the proper balance of insulin is maintained in the body.
Bone health: Mushroom is a very good source of calcium. They ensure that adequate strength of various bones is maintained in the body. Regular intake of mushroom can ensure safeguard an individual from conditions such as osteoporosis, joint pain, and immobility.
Blood Pressure: Mushroom variety such as the maitake and the shitake has a high amount of potassium content. The latter can successfully relax the blood vessels thereby, reducing the blood pressure. Increased potassium content also helps in knowledge retention and an improved memory. High blood pressure, on the other hand, can cause severe damage such as strokes, heart attacks etc.
Selenium content: Selenium component is mushroom is one of the key ways to receive selenium for a vegetarian. Selenium helps in strengthening the bone, nail, tooth and hair. Selenium is also considered to be a very powerful antioxidant that can successfully get rid of free radicals in the body and strengthen the immune system.

Mushrooms - 6 Reasons Why You Should Start Eating Them Today!

My child complains of Chest Pain. Should you be worried?

Chest pain is a common complaint among children. For a parent, it can be worrisome because there is a natural tendency to associate chest pain with the heart. The good news is, in more than 95% of cases, chest pain is non-cardiac in origin.

What signs will tell me that the pain may be related to the heart?

Chest pain that occurs in association with certain pointers needs a thorough evaluation. Some of the features that may suggest a heart-related condition include:

Associated breathing difficulty or dizziness
Chest pain that is brought on by exercise
When cardiac disorders run in the family or there have been sudden deaths at a young age in the family
A past medical condition like Kawasaki disease or connective tissue disorder
The following features suggest that a non-cardiac cause is likely:

If the pain follows direct trauma to the chest or is worsened on local pressure: the muscles or bones that form the chest wall are the likely origin of pain
Wheezing or fever and cough: a lung problem is likely
A burning pain beneath the breastbone, especially in relation to certain types of food: may be related to the digestive system
A stressful situation at school or home: a psychological cause of chest pain may be considered.
What can I expect at the doctor s visit?

If your child complains of chest pain, it is important to take him or her to the doctor. Your doctor will first take a detailed history and examine the child. ECG, a record of the electrical activity of the heart, gives an initial idea whether or not the pain may be related to the heart. Other tests that may be ordered include a chest XRay, a  heart-scan  (echocardiogram), a stress test, or further tests based on the findings on evaluation.

Chest Pain In Children - Should You Be Worried?

During breathing activity, chest wall moves out & in, lungs expand & relax. For the smooth movement of the lungs inside the chest cavity, they are lined by pleura.

Pleura includes two thin linings, the layer lining lungs is called visceral pleura and the one lining chest wall is called parietal pleura. The cavity formed between these two layers is called Pleural cavity. It contains a small amount of lubricant called Pleural fluid which helps smooth sliding of two pleural surfaces. Any condition which results in inflammation of the pleural surfaces or accumulation of excessive fluid in the pleural cavity gives rise to symptoms attributable to pleural involvement or disease.

Pleural effusion is nothing but the collection of excess fluid in the pleural cavity. Excess fluid in the pleural space is not normal and can occur due to a variety of reasons. Depending on the chemical composition it is broadly divided into two categories, transudate and exudate. 


What Causes Pleural Effusion?

1. Transudate pleural effusions 

Transudate pleural effusion is formed when fluid leaks from blood vessels into the pleural space. Chemically, transudates contain less protein and LDH than exudates. It is generally seen in the following conditions.

Congestive heart failure

Liver failure or cirrhosis

Kidney failure or nephrotic syndrome

Peritoneal dialysis

2. Exudate pleural effusions 

Exudate pleural effusion is caused by inflammation of the pleura itself and are often due to diseases involving the lung. Following are some common illnesses giving rise to exudate pleural effusion.

Tuberculosis
Pneumonia
Lung or breast cancer
Lymphoma
Pulmonary embolism
Post chest wall trauma or surgery
Asbestosis and mesothelioma
Secondary to intra-abdominal pathology 
Pancreatic pseudocyst, etc
Symptoms of Pleural Effusion -

Chest Pain: Chest pain is mainly due to irritation of the pleural lining. The pain is sharp, localized and worsens with a deep breath, yawning, coughing which is usually described as pleuritic. If the effusion causes inflammation of the diaphragm the pain may be referred to the shoulder or the upper abdomen. As the pleural effusion increases in size, the pain may increase or disappear altogether due to the separation of inflamed pleural surfaces.

Shortness of breath: As the effusion grows larger with more fluid, the harder it is for the lung to expand and the more difficult it is for the patient to breathe resulting in shortness of breath.

Other Symptoms: Other symptoms are generally attributable to the underlying disease process.

Diagnosis of Pleural Effusion -

Patient s Detailed History and Clinical Examination are the mainstays of diagnosing pleural effusion and it s the underlying cause. Following investigative modalities are generally opted for working out the final diagnosis before instituting appropriate therapy.

Chest X-ray: X-ray will help indicate the presence of fluid. 
Chest Ultrasound(USG): will help in confirming the presence of the fluid and it s localization which in turn can guide the physician about its quantity and its capability.
CT Scan: CT scan of the chest may at times be required to ascertain the underlying cause or to know about any other co-morbid conditions.
Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure used to sample the fluid from the pleural effusion. Using a long thin needle, fluid can be removed and sent for testing to confirm the diagnosis.
This can be just for diagnostic purposes or can even be used as a therapeutic procedure.
Chemical analysis of the fluid will help determine the type of pleural effusion.
Treatment of Pleural Effusion -

Treatment of underlying Disease: The treatment of a pleural effusion usually requires that the underlying illness or disease is treated and controlled to prevent the accumulation of the pleural fluid. Like anti-TB therapy for Tubercular etiology or treatment of Cancer in malignant pleural effusion, etc.

Thoracentesis: As discussed earlier Thoracentesis can be used as a therapeutic procedure to remove excess fluid and help lung expand and function properly.

Tube thoracostomy: Thoracostomy or chest tube insertion may be done to drain and treat fluids which cannot be removed by needle aspirations, e.g. empyemas (pus collections).

Pleurodesis: Some pleural effusions reoccur multiple times; sclerosing agents that induce scarring such as talc or tetracycline was used to prevent a recurrence.

Decortication: If sclerosing agents fail, surgery may be required, called Decortication.

Pleural Effusion - What Is It?

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