Peripartum Cardiomyopathy
February is Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart health. Pregnancy can put extra stress on the heart which can expose existing heart conditions or cause new ones. Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), also known as postpartum cardiomyopathy, is an uncommon form of heart failure that happens towards the end of pregnancy or in the months following delivery, when no other cause of heart failure can be found.
In PPCM the heart chambers enlarge and the heart muscle weakens. This causes a decrease in the amount of blood the heart pumps with each heartbeat. A weakened heart can cause fatigue and low blood pressure due to less blood flow to the body, and can cause swelling in legs and abdomen due to fluid buildup in organs including the lungs and liver.
PPCM may be difficult to detect because symptoms of heart failure can mimic those of pregnancy, such as shortness of breath and swelling in the feet and legs. A heart ultrasound, called an echocardiogram, can detect cardiomyopathy by showing that the heart function is weak. Lab tests may also be done to confirm the diagnosis. Women can manage their health to decrease the risk of high blood pressure. Don’t smoke. Eat a well balance diet, avoid alcohol and move daily for exercise and to support a healthy heart.
If you are expecting, discuss any concerns with your OB/Gyn.
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