Alcoholic cardiomyopathy results in poor heart function because the heart muscle is too weak to pump efficiently. Symptoms of alcoholic cardiomyopathy are a result of heart failure . Lack of blood flow affects all parts of the body, resulting in damage to multiple tissues and organ systems. Incidence of alcoholic cardiomyopathy is 2 out of 1,000 people. The disorder is most commonly seen in males ages 35 to 55 years old but it may become evident in older individuals.
Symptoms occur because of heart failure .
Signs And Tests Examination and tests are directed at diagnosing and evaluating heart failure . Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is usually diagnosed when it is discovered as a cause of the heart failure. Physical examination may reveal irregular or rapid heartbeat . An ECG may show arrhythmias . A myocardial biopsy may be helpful to distinguish alcoholic cardiomyopathy from other diseases that may cause cardiomyopathy .