Symptom 10. Unexplained Weight Gain: A Surprising Symptom of Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
The final symptom in our discussion of restrictive cardiomyopathy is unexplained weight gain. At first glance, it might seem unrelated to a heart condition, it’s more often associated with overeating or lack of exercise. But upon closer inspection in the context of RCM, it ties back to a common RCM feature: fluid accumulation. This is our old “buddy”, a condition known as edema. The impaired filling of the heart chambers in RCM disrupts normal blood flow, leading to fluid accumulation in body tissues.
Edema often manifests as swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs. However, fluid can also accumulate in the abdomen, leading to bloating or an increase in waist circumference. In some instances, fluid might even accumulate in the lungs, a condition called pulmonary edema, which can cause shortness of breath.
The unexplained weight gain in RCM can be distressing and can exacerbate feelings of discomfort or breathlessness. In severe cases, it can significantly affect mobility and independence. Hence, it’s a symptom that requires proactive management to prevent complications and enhance comfort.
In conclusion, weight gain in RCM is a symptom that extends beyond the scales. It’s a testament to the far-reaching effects of the heart’s rigidity on the body and the complex interplay of organs and systems. Understanding this can help individuals with RCM to better manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life. (10)
