What is peripartum cardiomyopathy?
Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a condition that some people get during pregnancy or soon after childbirth. The heart muscle stretches more than normal and becomes weak. It may cause problems, such as heart failure. This means your heart can't pump the blood your body needs. It can be long-term and sometimes causes death.
What are the symptoms of peripartum cardiomyopathy?
Symptoms include shortness of breath and swelling in the legs. You may also feel very tired and feel faint or dizzy. Other symptoms include chest pain, a rapid heart rate, a cough, and trouble breathing when you lie down.
How is peripartum cardiomyopathy diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and your past health. They may ask about your family history. You will have a physical exam. You will also have tests, such as an echocardiogram (echo) and an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). You may have a chest X-ray and an ultrasound of your heart.
How is peripartum cardiomyopathy treated?
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and helping your heart work better. Treatment may include taking medicines. You and your doctor will work together to find a treatment plan that works best for you.
How can you care for yourself when you have peripartum cardiomyopathy?
Take your medicines as prescribed. Let your doctor know if you're having problems with medicines. Be sure to go to all doctor appointments. This will help your doctor find and treat problems early. Eat healthy, low-sodium foods. Talk to your doctor about what activities are safe for you. Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have symptoms of sudden heart failure. These may include:
- Severe trouble breathing.
- A fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Coughing up pink, foamy mucus.
- You passed out.
- You have chest pain.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or changed symptoms of heart failure, such as:
- New or increased shortness of breath.
- New or worse swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet.
- Sudden weight gain, such as more than 2 to 3 pounds in a day or 5 pounds in a week. (Your doctor may suggest a different range of weight gain.)
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded or like you may faint.
- Feeling so tired or weak that you cannot do your usual activities.
- Not sleeping well. Shortness of breath wakes you at night. You need extra pillows to prop yourself up to breathe easier.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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