Below is some additional information about cardiomyopathy. It is usually diagnosed by history and an echocardiogram. Occasionally a heart muscle biopsy is performed. It may not be easy to predict or diagnosis prior to the onset. Symptoms are shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, chest discomfort and palpitations and increased fatigue.
Treatment is usually medical and in severe cases heart transplant.
About a third of patients get worse with some going on to transplant. Another third stay the same and are managed well with medical therapy and the rest get better. In young people it is probably the number one cause of cardiomyopathy. In older people it is less common. Concerned in regard to taking good care of yourself and following your doctor's advice.