3. Fatigue – An Underestimated Signal of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Among the symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, fatigue often goes unrecognized. It is commonly brushed aside, attributed to stress, lack of sleep, or a busy lifestyle. However, chronic, unexplained fatigue might indicate something more serious lurking beneath the surface, such as HCM.
In the case of HCM, fatigue is a result of inadequate oxygen supply to the body’s tissues. As the heart muscle thickens due to HCM, it makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Consequently, the body doesn’t get enough oxygen, leading to a feeling of tiredness, lethargy, or exhaustion. This can occur even if the person hasn’t engaged in any strenuous activity, which can be quite puzzling.
Moreover, the fatigue experienced by HCM patients isn’t relieved by rest or sleep, unlike normal fatigue. This can interfere with the person’s daily activities, job performance, and overall quality of life. This persistent fatigue can also lead to mood changes, such as irritability or depression, adding to the person’s distress.
The importance of recognizing fatigue as a symptom of HCM cannot be overstated. It’s often the first sign that something isn’t right, and acknowledging it can prompt further investigation and diagnosis. Despite being subtle, it’s a red flag, one that can lead to early detection of HCM and timely treatment. (3)
