Myocardium Disorders have a constellation of symptoms that encompasses the major groups of cardiomyopathies. The following are some of the more common symptoms encountered in Myocardium Disorders:

• Chest discomfort and pain

• Periorbital swelling (puffy eyelids)

• Diaphoresis (profuse perspiration)

• Swelling of extremities (swollen arms and legs)

• Shortness of breath

• Cyanosis (bluish or purplish discoloration of hands and feet)

• Easily fatigued

• Edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles)

Your Physician Consultation and Diagnostic Tools

Myocardium Disorders may be confirmed and demonstrated by these diagnostic methods:

History Intake through a thorough Q and A and Physical Examination should be taken to arrive into an accurate diagnosis.

Electrocardiography (ECG/EKG) – The procedure that involves the placing of electrodes on the body to determine the polarity of heart’s discharges. The results allow for physicians to determine the speed of and rhythm of the heart. Timing of discharge in the different areas of the heart may show enlargement and dilatation of the heart walls. Axial deviation may be detected by the ECG.

Echocardiography – Utilizes sound waves to elucidate the image of the heart real time. This test  reveals the size and the shape of the heart. Echocardiography also measures the wall thickenings and detects inflammatory processes in the myocardium.

Chest X-ray – Chest X-rays involving ionizing radiation take pictures of the inside of the chest cavity. The test can screen for enlargement of the heart, deviation from normal anatomy of the heart and the accumulation of fluid in the heart and chest cavity.

Computed Tomography (CT) – This will involve several x-ray shots to view the heart and lungs in all angles with the goal to expose the defect.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) –Cardiac MRI utilizes magnet, radio waves and a computer to diagnose defects of the heart. MRI offers give three dimensional imaging, either static or moving. A Cardiologist may easily see the behavior of the heart during actual pumping and how the defective walls compromise the blood flow. Ejection fraction may be computed to assess the viability of the myocardium.

Cardiac Catheterization – This is an invasive procedure whereby a flexible plastic tube is inserted in a big vessel of the thigh, arm or neck, and threaded to the heart. Dyes may be injected in certain areas for clearer x-ray shots; this is known as cardiac angiography. Ventricular chambers may be elucidated and seen more clearly.

Other Possible Related Conditions?

Myocardium disorders are all primary in terms of etiology, thus secondary diseases like portal hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and other forms of secondary congestion that affects the myocardium may be evaluated as a differential diagnosis. It is also understood that these primary pathologies may complicate and involve vital organs like the kidneys, lungs and the stomach.

Next Visit, Treatments for Myocardium Disorders

It is important to recognize that medications and medical procedures are associated with benefits and risks that should be discussed with your physician. It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition. Your Health Access disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.