Symptom 5: Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort – Reading the Signs
An unexpected symptom of dilated cardiomyopathy is bloating and discomfort in the abdominal region. While this symptom might initially seem unrelated to a heart condition, there is indeed a connection, and understanding it can help in recognizing the presence of this disease.
The heart’s impaired ability to pump blood in dilated cardiomyopathy has a domino effect on other organs in the body. One of these is the liver, which receives a lower amount of blood. This insufficient blood supply can cause congestion in the liver, leading to its enlargement—a condition known as hepatomegaly.
This enlarged liver can create a feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdominal area, accompanied by discomfort. It might also be tender to touch. Furthermore, as the liver plays a crucial role in digestion, its compromised function can lead to digestive issues, further exacerbating the feeling of bloating. (5)
