What are the treatments of cardiomyopathy?

Condition analysis:
When possible, the cause of cardiomyopathy is treated. Medicines and lifestyle changes are often needed to treat the symptoms of heart failure, angina and abnormal heart rhythms.

Procedures or surgeries may also be used, including:
-- A defibrillator that sends an electrical pulse to stop life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms
-- A pacemaker that treats a slow heart rate or helps both sides of the heart beat at the same time
-- Coronary artery bypass (CABG) surgery or angioplasty that may improve blood flow to the damaged or weakened heart muscle
-- Heart transplant that may be tried when all other treatments have failed

Recently, implantable artificial heart pumps have been developed. These may be used for very severe cases. However, not all people need or are able to have this advanced treatment.

Instructions:
Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes to manage a condition that’s causing your cardiomyopathy including:
-- Heart-healthy eating
-- Aiming for a healthy weight
-- Managing stress
-- Physical activity
-- Quitting smoking