Living 4 Zachary

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition or disease where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick. The heart muscle that is made thickened due to the HCM can make it harder for the heart to pump blood . Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can also affect the heart's electrical system.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can go undiagnosed, because many of those with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy don't have any signs, until it's too late.  Many symptoms can be shortness of breath, and problems in the "electical system" of your heart - causing abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that can take your life.

Illustrations of a normal heart (left) and a heart with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Note that the heart walls (muscle) are much thicker (hypertrophied) in the HCM heart.    Source - Mayo Clinic

Most times - these heart conditions can be detected by a simple heart screening. You won't get this heart screening during a physical for school or average check up, not will insurance cover this type of heart screening. Attend the Living for Zachary Educational  Forum on Friday, February 20, 2015 from 6-9PM at the The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano in Plano, TX.