3. Cardiac Complications: A Silent Threat
The third fact to be aware of in Friedreich’s Ataxia is the involvement of the heart. In many cases, the heart is silently affected long before any symptoms become evident. This covert affliction of the heart can lead to severe complications, often becoming life-threatening if not managed promptly.
FRDA primarily affects the heart muscle, leading to a condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This means that the heart muscle thickens, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this can lead to heart failure, a condition where the heart can’t pump blood as effectively as it should.
While heart-related symptoms might not be the initial concern for individuals with FRDA, the onset of chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or rapid heartbeats warrant immediate attention. These could be the telltale signs of an overworked heart, striving to compensate for the effects of the disease.
Even though cardiac involvement in FRDA is a stark reality, advancements in cardiac care have made it possible to manage these symptoms effectively. Regular cardiac assessments, coupled with appropriate therapeutic interventions, can help keep these complications in check. They may even improve the quality of life for those battling the disorder.(3)
