A weak heart, medically often referred to as cardiomyopathy or a contributor to heart failure, is a condition where the heart muscle is weakened, stretched, or has structural problems. This impacts the heart's ability to effectively pump blood throughout the body.
Understanding a Weak Heart
Several factors can lead to a weakened heart:
-
Cardiomyopathy: This disease directly affects the heart muscle, causing it to weaken, stretch, or develop structural issues. Mayo Clinic describes cardiomyopathy as a disease of the heart muscle that hinders the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. MedlinePlus further explains that cardiomyopathy causes the heart muscle to become weakened, stretched, or structurally compromised.
-
Heart Failure: While not a disease itself, heart failure is a condition where the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Mayo Clinic explains that heart failure occurs when a weakened or damaged heart leads to enlarged heart chambers, hindering blood pumping capacity. NHS also highlights that heart failure results from a weakened or stiff heart's inability to pump blood effectively. Mount Sinai describes heart failure as the heart's inefficiency in pumping oxygen-rich blood.
-
Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor diet and lack of exercise, significantly contribute to heart weakening. Verywell Health emphasizes the role of lifestyle in causing heart weakness and suggests that many cases of heart disease are preventable.
Symptoms of a Weak Heart
Symptoms can vary but may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Treatment for a Weak Heart
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity but generally involves:
- Medication
- Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise)
- In some cases, surgery or other medical procedures
