A healthy heart is a vital pump. It works non-stop for 70 years and more, sending blood to all parts of the body. To do this the heart muscle must keep as strong as possible. In most cases, tests can't show the cause, but the problem can still be treated effectively. In large doses it damages the heart.
Some people are sensitive to alcohol even at normal levels of consumption.
Half of those whose hearts are damaged by alcohol can recover, often completely, if they stop drinking altogether. Virus infection - A common cause of cardiomyopathy. It can damage the muscle but may take months or longer to show. Most virus infections don't cause heart problems. Family history - Where more than one relative has cardiomyopathy of unknown cause.