6. Swelling of the Abdomen: The Subtle Siren of Cardiomyopathy
One of the less commonly recognized symptoms of cardiomyopathy is abdominal swelling or bloating. As the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently deteriorates due to cardiomyopathy, fluid can start to accumulate in the body. Sometimes, this excess fluid builds up in the abdominal area, causing a sensation of fullness or swelling.
Bloating is often associated with gastrointestinal issues or overeating, and indeed, these are common causes. However, when bloating is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms on this list, it could signal a more severe underlying issue like cardiomyopathy.
The swelling might not be evident at first, but over time, it can become quite uncomfortable. It can affect appetite and even the ability to bend over or move around efficiently. If you’ve noticed persistent bloating, especially if coupled with other symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath, a visit to the doctor can help discern the root cause. (6)
