Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Ischemia is a condition where the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a part of the body is restricted. Cardiac Ischemia refers to lack of blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle.

Cardiac Ischemia happens when an artery becomes narrowed or blocked for a short time, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart. If ischemia is severe or lasts too long, it can cause a heart attack (myocardial infarction) and can lead to heart tissue death. In most cases, a temporary blood shortage to the heart causes the pain of angina pectoris. But in other cases, there is no pain. These cases are called SILENT ISCHEMIA.

Ischemic_Cardiomyopathy

Silent Ischemia may also disturb the heart's rhythm. Abnormal rhythms such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation can interfere with the heart's pumping ability and can cause fainting or even sudden cardiac death.

Ischemic Cardiomyopathy is the loss or weakening of heart muscle tissue caused by ischemia or silent ischemia. The ischemia usually results from coronary artery disease and heart attacks.

Treatment for Ischemic Cardiomyopathy is similar to that for other forms of cardiomyopathy, with special attention given to treating coronary artery disease. For patients whose hearts have been seriously damaged by ischemic cardiomyopathy, doctors may recommend that a heart transplant be considered.

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