Fact 5. The Impact on Life Expectancy: The Prognosis of Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy can pose significant challenges, but it’s not a death sentence. Many people with the condition lead long, fulfilling lives, thanks to advances in diagnosis and treatment. However, the disease’s impact on life expectancy varies based on several factors, including the type of cardiomyopathy, severity, and the individual’s overall health.
Among the different types of cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy generally carries a better prognosis. With proper management, people with this condition can lead normal or near-normal lives. However, they face a heightened risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly if they have severe symptoms or a family history of the condition.
Dilated cardiomyopathy, on the other hand, can be more challenging to manage. Over time, the disease can lead to heart failure, significantly impacting life expectancy. But with advancements in treatments such as medications, pacemakers, and even heart transplants, many individuals with this condition can achieve improved survival rates.
Restrictive and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathies are less common, and their prognoses vary widely. They can lead to serious complications such as heart failure or sudden cardiac death. However, timely diagnosis and management can mitigate these risks and enhance the individual’s quality of life. (5)
