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Is there any info on dilated cardiomyopathy?

By March 25, 2011 - 1:36pm
 
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My 17 yr old son suffered cardiac arrest during a basketball game 12/2010. CPR started in less than a minute. He survived and now has a defibrillator. His ejection fraction is 31. Any info on suggested care, rehab, prognosis etc? His heart problem is only detected on echocardiogram not on an ekg.

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Hi daynap,
As a mother of three children, I can appreciate your situation and know that you want only the best for your son. He was very fortunate to have CPR started so quickly.
Your son's cardiologist is possibly your best resource person. But here is some information from MedlinePlus that might be helpful:
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart becomes weakened and enlarged, and it cannot pump blood efficiently. The decreased heart function can affect the lungs, liver, and other body systems.
When the cause of dilated cardiomyopathy is found, treatment focuses on correcting the cause. If no cause is identified, treatment includes:
medications, a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator, just as your son has.
A low-salt diet may be prescribed and fluid may be restricted in some cases. You can usually continue your regular activities, if you are able.
You may be asked to monitor your body weight daily. Weight gain of 3 pounds or more over 1 or 2 days may indicate fluid buildup (in adults).
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, which may make the symptoms worse.
The outcome varies. Some people remain in a stable condition for long periods of time, some continue to gradually get sicker, and others quickly get worse. Cardiomyopathy can only be corrected if the disease that caused it can be treated. Some individuals recover completely while others continue to have some cardiac conditions.
Wishing you and your son only the best.

March 25, 2011 - 5:25pm
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