Health Information
Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy
Topic Overview
Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is caused by long-term alcohol abuse. It is a type of Reference dilated cardiomyopathy Opens New Window. The heart muscle is weakened and cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to heart failure. Alcohol in excessive quantities has a directly toxic effect on heart muscle cells.
Symptoms are the result of heart failure and include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling, and cough. Muscular weakness may also be present because of the effect of alcohol on muscles (alcoholic myopathy).
Treatment includes quitting drinking. Quitting drinking often results in improved heart function. Continued alcohol consumption, on the other hand, will continue to make heart failure worse. Treatment also often includes standard treatment for heart failure, such as lifestyle changes and medicines.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference July 24, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Reference George Philippides, MD - Cardiology |
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